Battery degradation and replacement:
- Natural chemical aging: Over time, battery cells lose their ability to hold charge due to chemical changes during charge/discharge cycles.
- Usage-related wear: Frequent fast charging, deep discharges, and high operating temperatures accelerate degradation.
- Gradual capacity loss: Most EVs lose 1–2% of battery capacity per year under normal conditions, though this varies by model and usage.
- Battery replacement is possible: While expensive, full or partial battery replacement can restore range. Some manufacturers and third parties offer refurbishment or module-level repair.
With proper care, most EV batteries last well beyond their warranty period — and replacement is an option when needed.