You’d think a brand-new electric vehicle would be the latest and greatest, huh? Not always. Lots of them are already falling behind the curve.
$16K for a car battery? Only if you drive an EV …
Here’s a shocker you need to know: Replacing the battery in an electric vehicle can set you back up to $50,000. For those of you keeping track at home, that’s more than a brand-new Tesla Model 3. I’m not beating up Tesla. All EV carmakers hope you don’t figure this out.
OK, how long do EV batteries last?
Hmm, 10 years? 20? Nope. According to a Daily Mail investigation, the average EV battery lasts about eight years — and after that, there’s no hard and fast rule for knowing how much time you have left.,
Many EVs lose up to 12% of their charge capacity by the sixth year, and some lose even more. Case in point: By the time a Nissan Leaf reaches eight years old, it may have lost up to 20% of its battery life — in other words, 99 miles per charge versus the 124 you got while it was new.
Why so pricey?
EV batteries use high-demand metals like nickel, cobalt, lithium and manganese, which are also used in phone and laptop batteries. Plus, you need a specialist to replace them. Most car companies only let you get a replacement at one of their dealerships.
EV batteries typically come with eight-year warranties — but beyond that, to replace it, you’re looking at $16,000 minimum.
If you’re considering an EV or already have one …
- Charge at home. When you can, use a home-based, mains-connected charger (e.g., wall outlet) vs. a high-speed charger.
- Weather makes a big difference. EVs operate best between 77 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Colder temps slow down EV batteries. It also reduces their capacity over time.
Buying a used EV
Most EV battery warranties cover the first eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Make sure you know exactly how much time is left on the EV battery’s warranty and how much it’s going to cost to replace it.
🤣 Before you say “Tesla” backward, make sure everyone’s ready. All set? (Oh, tough crowd today!)
EV stats revealed: States with the most chargers
Quick, take your best guess! Which state has the most chargers per registered electric vehicle (EV)?
Nope, it’s not California — though it is the state with the most EVs and the most EV chargers, all told. There are about 43,000 chargers (that’s 47 for every thousand EVs). That’s below the national average.
Is your EV a target for hackers?
Car theft looks a lot different in today’s tech-powered world. Instead of bashing your window in old-school style, modern hackers have found a much sneakier way to access your car. If you have an electric vehicle (EV), you’re the most at risk.
Prefer two wheels to four?
Nah, I don’t mean a Harley. We’re talking to you, Vespa and Lime scooter folks.
Fiat is banking on you — and Gen Zers looking for a new ride — with its new Topolino. The tiny electric vehicle is 8.3 feet long and reaches just 28 mph. Check out the unveiling vid.
EVs - why customers don’t like what they see
Feel the pressure to buy an electric vehicle? Here’s why buyers aren’t thrilled with them.
What should you do if your electric vehicle catches fire
Legos: Unbelievable $18,000 car unveiled using unique design
What comes to mind when you picture cars of the future? Do your mental images of futuristic cars involve flying machines like the ones on “The Jetsons?” Or do you picture something completely different altogether, like basic electric cars? Tap or click here to see if electric cars are more affordable to drive.
The Hummer returns as electric truck to take on Tesla - first look
Do you remember the first time you saw a Hummer driving around town? You may have thought you slept for way too long and woke up in the middle of a war zone. That’s because the massive trucks originally designed for military use became super popular once they were made available to consumers.