Electric vehicle (EV) batteries are no longer shrouded in mystery – and real-world data is proving their durability. A recent four-year test conducted by Germany’s ADAC Automobile Club on a Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S Tour shines a light on how EVs hold up over time, offering valuable insights into battery life beyond lab conditions.
In May 2021, the ADAC took delivery of the 77kWh EV and put it through its paces, racking up an impressive 100,000 miles with diverse drivers contributing to the mileage. Crucially, this wasn’t a gentle test drive. The battery was regularly charged to 100% after trips, sometimes left fully charged for extended periods between journeys, and even used on longer highways where range anxiety might have been a factor (with a highway range around 250 miles compared to an official WLTP range of 326 miles). These practices – often cited as potentially harmful to battery longevity – mimicked real-world EV usage.
The test also factored in the ever-evolving nature of EV technology. Throughout the four years, Volkswagen rolled out software updates for the ID.3. These included bug fixes, a boost to rapid charging speed to 170kW, and crucially, new software designed to enhance energy efficiency, particularly during shorter trips and colder temperatures (between 0-5 degrees Celsius).
At regular intervals, the battery’s health was rigorously assessed at the independent Bavarian Test and Technology Centre. The results painted a positive picture: after 13,500 miles, its State of Health (SOH) stood at a healthy 96%; this dipped slightly to 94% after 52,000 miles, and further to 91% after 90,000 miles – still well within acceptable parameters.
Importantly, the test concluded that the battery would have easily exceeded its warranty period of eight years or 160,000 kilometers (99,422 miles), with no need for replacement as long as its SOH remained above 70% of its original capacity. The ADAC lauded Volkswagen’s commitment to delivering regular software updates, stating that they play a critical role in maximizing battery lifespan and performance.
This real-world test provides further evidence that EV battery technology is maturing rapidly. The data suggests that with proper care – including embracing software updates from manufacturers – EVs can deliver reliable range for many years.
