Come Sta La Batteria Di Un’Auto Elettrica Dopo 300mila Km? L’Abbiamo Testata Per Voi

Electric cars have gained immense popularity in recent years, with more and more people opting for these eco-friendly vehicles. However, one of the major concerns that still lingers in the minds of potential buyers is the durability of electric cars, especially when it comes to the battery. How long do electric car batteries last? How many kilometers can they endure? These questions are valid and need to be addressed. To shed some light on this topic, I had the pleasure of interviewing Gabriele, who is the proud owner of a Volkswagen Golf electric car with an astonishing mileage of 300,000 kilometers. In this article, we will take a closer look at the condition of Gabriele's car and analyze the battery's health after all these years and kilometers.

The Golf: A Proven Workhorse

First things first, let's talk about Gabriele's Golf. This electric car, which happens to be the second generation of the Golf EV, comes equipped with a 35.8 kilowatt-hour battery, with 31.5 kilowatt-hours of usable capacity. Despite its impressive distance covered, the Golf still looks in great condition. In terms of aesthetics, it's hard to believe that this car has traveled 300,000 kilometers. The engine compartment also appears neat and tidy, showcasing the minimalistic design typical of electric cars. While opening the hood may not reveal much in terms of the engine, Gabriele proudly shows off the odometer, which reads 300,077 kilometers.

Fuel Efficiency: The Numbers Don't Lie

Now, let's talk about the numbers. Over the course of 300,000 kilometers, Gabriele has consumed approximately 45,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity. It's worth noting that about two-thirds of this energy was obtained from alternating current (AC) chargers or Gabriele's home charging unit, while the remaining third was obtained from direct current (DC) fast chargers.

When it comes to the cost of charging an electric car, there are several variables at play. Energy costs fluctuate depending on location, time of day, and the type of charging station. However, a rough estimation based on Gabriele's usage suggests a range between 10,000 and 12,000 euros for a total mileage of 300,000 kilometers. Keep in mind that this estimation includes primarily home charging and assumes average electricity prices. Those with solar panels or access to cheaper electricity could potentially spend even less.

Maintenance: Minimal Hassle, Maximum Savings

Contrary to popular belief, owning an electric car doesn't mean constant visits to the mechanic. In fact, Gabriele's maintenance costs over the past five years have been quite reasonable. Apart from regular check-ups and the replacement of some minor components, Gabrielle has spent approximately 3,080 euros on maintenance. It's important to note that this figure includes both routine maintenance and repairs unrelated to the electric powertrain. For comparison, a gasoline or diesel car of equivalent mileage and age would have likely required more extensive and expensive maintenance work.

Battery Health: The Ultimate Test

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the battery's health. We all know that the battery is the heart of an electric car, and its longevity determines the vehicle's ultimate durability. Gabriele's Golf has undergone regular battery health checks using the renowned Vienna Test. This comprehensive test involves continuous monitoring of the battery during discharge, providing accurate insights into its health.

Throughout the years, the battery health remained remarkably stable. At 60,000 kilometers, the battery had a health rating of 95%. By 160,000 kilometers, it was at 92%, and from 185,000 kilometers onwards, it remained around 90%. There was a slight drop to 87% at 246,000 kilometers, but at the remarkable milestone of 300,000 kilometers, the battery's health stood at a commendable 85%. It's important to note that these percentage figures account for the battery's energy storage capacity, not its overall performance.

Peace of Mind for the Long Haul

Despite the slight decrease in capacity, Gabriele claims he hasn't noticed a significant impact on the car's range or daily usability. With a loss of around 15% capacity, which translates to approximately 4 kilowatt-hours, the impact on the range is minimal. For a vehicle with an initial range of 300-350 kilometers, losing 20-25 kilometers of range is hardly a cause for concern. Furthermore, advancements in electric vehicle technology ensure that newer models have even higher ranges, making the impact of battery degradation almost negligible.

In conclusion, Gabriele's experience with his 300,000-kilometer Golf serves as a testament to the durability and longevity of electric cars. With proper maintenance and regular battery health checks, owning an electric car can be a reliable and cost-effective choice. The fears surrounding the durability of electric cars, especially battery life, are largely unfounded. As battery technology improves and charging infrastructure expands, electric cars are becoming an increasingly viable option for anyone looking to embrace sustainable transportation.

So, next time you consider switching to an electric car, remember Gabriele's Golf and how it defied expectations. Embrace the future of mobility, knowing that your electric car can go the distance and beyond.