Electric Car Battery Longevity: Taksol’s 400,000km Test
- one of the most persistent concerns for potential electric vehicle (EV) owners is battery durability.
- A 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus, used as an Uber vehicle in Western Australia, has surpassed 409,000 kilometers (approximately 254,000 miles) with remarkably little battery degradation.
- An inspection by EV Work Car Workshop revealed the battery health of this high-mileage Model 3 remains between 88% and 90% of its original capacity.
Tesla Model 3: 400,000 Kilometers and Still Going Strong
Table of Contents
The Longevity Question for Electric Vehicle Batteries
one of the most persistent concerns for potential electric vehicle (EV) owners is battery durability. How long will the battery last, and how will its performance degrade over time? recent data from Western Australia offers a compelling case study, demonstrating that with mindful usage, EV batteries can withstand significant mileage and maintain impressive health.
A 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus, used as an Uber vehicle in Western Australia, has surpassed 409,000 kilometers (approximately 254,000 miles) with remarkably little battery degradation. This real-world performance provides valuable insights for current and prospective EV drivers.
A Deep dive into the Data
An inspection by EV Work Car Workshop revealed the battery health of this high-mileage Model 3 remains between 88% and 90% of its original capacity. This is particularly noteworthy given the demanding use case – consistent operation as a ride-sharing vehicle. The vehicle has consumed nearly 50 Megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy over its lifespan, broken down as follows:
| Charging Type | Energy Used (KWH) | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|
| DC Fast Charging | 15,556 | 29% |
| AC Charging | 38,012 | 71% |
| Total | 53,568 | 100% |
The data clearly indicates a preference for AC charging, which accounted for 71% of the total energy used. This charging method, while slower, appears to contribute substantially to battery longevity.
The Role of Battery Chemistry
The Model 3 in question utilizes Lithium iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. LFP batteries are known for thier inherent durability and tolerance to frequent charging and discharging cycles. Unlike some other EV battery chemistries, LFP batteries are less susceptible to degradation from being charged to 100% regularly. This makes them an excellent choice for vehicles subjected to high usage, such as those in ride-sharing fleets.
Beyond the Battery: Addressing minor Issues
While the battery health remained impressive, the vehicle did experience a minor issue at the 400,000-kilometer mark: vibrations during operation. The source of the vibration was traced to a worn engine mount, which was replaced for approximately 130 Australian dollars (roughly $85 USD as of August 21, 2025). This highlights that even with advanced technology like EV powertrains,routine maintenance and component replacement remain necessary.