New data from the UK is set to reassure prospective electric vehicle owners, revealing that EV batteries are lasting significantly longer than many drivers believe. Concerns over battery health and longevity remain a major barrier for those considering the switch from petrol or diesel, but the latest figures paint a more resilient picture.
Battery Health Remains Robust Despite Faster Charging
A comprehensive new report from telematics specialist Geotab has provided fresh insight into real-world battery performance. Analysing data from more than 22,700 electric vehicles across 21 different makes and models, the study found the average annual battery degradation rate sits at 2.3 per cent.
This marks a slight increase from the 1.8 per cent rate identified in the company's 2024 findings. Experts attribute this change largely to the growing prevalence of high-power DC fast charging, which, while convenient, can stress battery chemistry more than slower, home-based charging.
However, in a key finding for consumers, 11 of the most common EV models tested showed an average degradation rate of just 1.8 per cent. This suggests that for many popular vehicles on UK roads, battery capacity loss is minimal.
Smart Charging is Key to Long-Term Battery Life
Charlotte Argue, Senior Manager of Sustainable Mobility at Geotab, commented on the results. "EV battery health remains strong, even as vehicles are charged faster and deployed more intensively," she stated.
"Our latest data shows that batteries are still lasting well beyond the replacement cycles most fleets plan for," Argue added. She emphasised a crucial shift in understanding: "What has changed is that charging behaviour now plays a much bigger role in how quickly batteries age, giving operators an opportunity to manage long-term risk through smart charging strategies."
AA Joins Campaign to Bust EV Myths with 'Stone Cold Data'
This data release coincides with the launch of the "Electric Cars: The Facts" campaign, which has been endorsed by the Labour Party government's Department for Transport. The AA has joined forces with Autotrader, ChargeUK, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) to combat common misconceptions using hard evidence.
AA President Edmund King sought to address a primary fear: breaking down. "For many drivers, the switch to electric is a big step, and some are understandably hesitant. However, one thing prospective electric drivers don't need to worry about is breaking down," he said.
King pointed to the AA's own extensive data, stating, "The AA has the biggest database of EV breakdowns in the UK, and our data shows EVs running out of charge is a tiny proportion of EV breakdowns and has fallen dramatically since 2015."
The campaign's research also highlighted demographic concerns:
- 56 per cent of people aged 75 and above voiced worries about potential EV breakdowns.
- Women were more likely to express concern (46 per cent) compared to men (41 per cent).
- Geographically, the North East was the most concerned area, with 52 per cent of respondents anxious about roadside repairs.
The collective message from industry and data analysts is clear: while charging habits influence long-term health, modern electric car batteries are proving to be durable, reliable, and a sound investment for the future of UK transport.
