Buying a used electric vehicle (EV)? The battery's health could be the deal-breaker. But how do you know if it's in good shape? That's the million-dollar question haunting many potential buyers. Let's dive into the world of EV batteries and uncover the secrets to assessing their condition.
Imagine this: Kerry Dunstan and his partner were thrilled to find a 2021 Nissan Leaf with only 29,000 miles on the clock. The dealer assured them the battery's state of health (SOH) was a solid 93%. Sold! For £12,500, they drove away with a spacious EV. But here's where it gets interesting: Mr. Dunstan, a cabinetmaker with a penchant for sleek electric Volvo SUVs, found the Leaf a bit underwhelming. Yet, he admits it's performed as expected over the past three months.
The Battery Conundrum: What's the Real Story?
Traditionally, age and mileage were the primary concerns for used car buyers. But with the rise of EVs, battery health has taken center stage. How has the battery been treated? Has it been fast-charged to 100% regularly? This practice can potentially shorten an EV battery's lifespan, a concern that has deterred some buyers from considering second-hand EVs. But is this fear justified?
The Battery Black Box: Unlocking the Secrets
Enter battery analytics firms like Aviloo, which claim to accurately assess an old EV battery's health. Their chief product officer, Patrick Schabus, confidently states, 'We can independently determine the state of health of a battery.' Aviloo offers two solutions: a premium test, where a data logging box monitors battery performance over a few days, and a flash test, which analyzes battery data in under two minutes.
Controversial Claim: SOH Below 80% Isn't a Death Sentence
Aviloo's CEO, Marcus Berger, challenges the notion that batteries with an SOH below 80% are beyond redemption. He argues, 'An EV with a state of health below 80% can still be a great car, as long as it's priced appropriately.' This statement might spark debate, but it raises an essential question: Are we being too harsh on used EV batteries?
Real-Life Experiences: The Good and the Surprising
Take Lucy Hawcroft from New Zealand, who bought a Nissan Leaf three years ago. The dealership reported an SOH of around 95%, but an independent check a year later revealed a significant drop. Yet, the car still boasts a 100-mile range when fully charged, perfect for her short daily commutes. On the other hand, David Smith from Cleevely Electric Vehicles emphasizes the importance of detailed battery analysis in sealing deals. His company relies on independent SOH reports, which often reassure customers and facilitate sales.
The Charging Dilemma: To Fast Charge or Not?
Simona Onori from Stanford University suggests there's a sweet spot between frequent fast charging and avoiding it altogether. However, she notes that this area requires more research. Max Reid from CRU highlights the significant improvements in battery technology, with newer EV cells lasting up to 10,000 charging cycles, a massive leap from older batteries.
Second Life for EV Batteries: A Sustainable Solution
What happens to batteries that are no longer suitable for EVs? Paul Chaundy from Second Life EV Batteries reveals that these batteries can still serve a purpose. Businesses use them for electricity storage, providing a cost-effective solution for powering equipment like electric forklifts.
The Need for Standardization: A Call to Action
With various car manufacturers using different methodologies for SOH reports, Chaundy advocates for more standardized practices. This would ensure consistency and reliability in battery health assessments.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the EV Revolution
As the EV market grows, understanding battery health is crucial. While concerns about used EV batteries persist, advancements in analytics and technology are addressing these issues. But here's a thought-provoking question: Are we being too cautious, or is there still much to learn about maximizing EV battery lifespan? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments – let's spark a conversation about the future of electric vehicles and their batteries.
