Long-term performance data for electric vehicles is becoming increasingly available as early models reach high mileage. A recent report by German automotive association ADAC has highlighted the degradation patterns of a 2022 Tesla Model Y after 87,000 miles of use.
Capacity Loss and Performance Impact
According to the ADAC documentation, the vehicle suffered a 14% loss in total battery capacity over the course of its high-mileage testing. While range loss is a commonly discussed aspect of EV aging, this study emphasizes a secondary, perhaps more frustrating, consequence of battery wear: reduced charging efficiency.
Slower Charging Speeds
Beyond the simple loss of driving range, the researchers noted a substantial reduction in peak charging power. As the battery ages, the vehicle's software and chemistry appear to limit the maximum intake of power during fast-charging sessions to preserve the remaining health of the cells. This results in longer wait times at charging stations compared to when the vehicle was new, adding a new variable for long-term EV ownership considerations.
