Discover Why Electric Vehicle Shoppers Should Focus on This Crucial Metric, Not Just Mileage

• The focus for used electric vehicle (EV) buyers in 2023 has shifted from mileage to battery health, emphasizing the battery’s central role in an EV’s value and longevity.
• Newer 2023 EV models retain 86% battery health at 90,000 miles, a significant improvement over older models from 2016–2017.
• Generational, an EV battery certification leader, highlights that 2023 EVs maintain better battery health even at 50,000 miles compared to earlier models.
• Battery health certification is becoming essential in the used EV market, offering buyers peace of mind and transforming purchasing strategies.
• Polestar leads the industry by providing battery health certificates for used models, enhancing buyer confidence and transparency.
• Understanding battery health is now crucial as the pre-owned EV market grows, especially with increasing availability of ex-fleet and early model vehicles.

A new imperative has emerged for used electric vehicle buyers in 2023: shift your gaze from the odometer to the heart of the EV itself—the battery. This year’s EV models are proving their prowess by holding onto their power far better than their predecessors. Imagine a streamlined 2023 EV cruising effortlessly past 90,000 miles yet retaining 86% of its battery’s vitality. This is not just progress; it is a revolution, as similar high-mileage vehicles from 2016–2017 would see their battery health dip below 76%.

This formidable statistic comes courtesy of Generational, a trailblazer in EV battery certification, whose state-of-the-art testing platform lays bare the advancements in EV battery endurance. Their data showcases that even at a modest 50,000 miles, the 2023 electric vehicle boasts over 5% superior battery health compared to those early models.

Here’s why this matters: in today’s bustling used EV market, the health of a battery signals longevity and performance, factors increasingly vital as consumer expectations evolve. The familiar measure of mileage now feels almost passé as “battery health” emerges as the key player in determining the true value of an electric vehicle.

Retailers are realizing that informed buyers, savvy to the notion that a robust battery can foretell many more miles of seamless driving, empower themselves with profound peace of mind. This represents a decisive shift in purchasing strategy, one that even Oliver Phillpott, the visionary CEO at Generational, recognizes as transformative. Eclipsing the odometer, battery health tells the untold story of an electric vehicle’s potential and worth, and buyers are catching on.

Despite the technological leaps of newer models, older EVs remain an attractive proposition for the right kind of driver—those with shorter commutes or who simply don’t require an extensive range. Phillpott suggests older EVs offer genuine value, provided customers are well-informed and confidently align their needs with the vehicle’s capabilities. Here, battery health certification stands as a beacon, providing clear insight and fostering trust in what can otherwise be uncertain terrain.

As the pre-owned EV market expands and diversifies, transparency aligns as crucial, whether the sellers are franchised retailers, independents, or advancing online platforms. The necessity for clarity becomes even more pressing as the second wave of ex-fleet and early model EVs floods the market. Generational leads the spotlight on leveraging battery health scores, insisting they soon could be as foundational to buying decisions as a service history or a vehicle check certificate.

Notably, Polestar emerges as an industry forerunner by introducing battery state-of-health certificates for its used models. This strategy equips buyers with confidence, ensuring that they are choosing a vehicle ready for many more smooth miles ahead.

In essence, the transition from mileage to battery health marks a pivotal moment in the electric vehicle narrative. Buyers armed with the right information can drive away not just in a car, but in a future full of promise and adventure. Welcome to the brave new world of electric driving, where the best part of the journey starts with understanding what fuels it.

The New Value Metric for Used Electric Vehicles: Why Battery Health is Key in 2023

Understanding the New Metric: Battery Health

In 2023, a shift has occurred in the evaluation of used electric vehicles (EVs), placing battery health at the forefront of purchasing considerations. While the odometer once dominated assessments, the focus is now on understanding how well the EV’s battery maintains its vitality over time.

Why Battery Health Matters

Battery health has become critical as it directly impacts an EV’s performance, range, and longevity. According to Generational, a pioneer in EV battery certification, a 2023 model can retain 86% of its battery capacity beyond 90,000 miles. This is a stark improvement over 2016-2017 models, which could drop below 76% under similar conditions.

Market Implications and Trends

Transformation of the Used EV Market

The burgeoning pre-owned EV sector demands transparency about battery conditions. As the market diversifies, buyers are keen on understanding a vehicle’s future potential rather than just its past mileage. Consequently, battery health assessments are increasingly being viewed as crucial as traditional service records.

Industry Innovations

Polestar has taken an innovative step by issuing battery state-of-health certificates, reinforcing consumer confidence. This sets a precedent that many other manufacturers are likely to follow.

How-To: Evaluating Battery Health in a Used EV

1. Request Battery Health Certification: Look for models that come with a battery health certificate, similar to those offered by Generational and Polestar.
2. Check Manufacturer Warranties: Most batteries come with an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first.
3. Use Diagnostic Tools: Employ independent diagnostic tools or apps to get real-time health reports of the battery.
4. Consult with Experts: Engage professionals who understand EV technology and can provide insights into battery performance metrics.

Real-World Use Cases

– Short Commutes: Older EVs with diminished range but adequate battery health are ideal for drivers with shorter commutes, maximizing value without the need for long-distance capabilities.
– Fleet Operations: Fleet operators are increasingly interested in battery health certificates to ensure reliability and efficiency in operations.

Pros and Cons Overview

Pros
– Detailed Insights: Battery health information provides a detailed look into the vehicle’s future potential.
– Enhanced Trust: Certification builds trust between sellers and buyers.

Cons
– Limited Availability: Battery health certification is not yet universally available.
– Potential Costs: Diagnostic evaluations and certifications could incur additional costs for buyers.

Insights and Predictions

As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, the emphasis on battery technology and health will likely increase. Industry experts predict a standardization in battery testing and reporting, making it easier for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Actionable Recommendations

1. Prioritize Battery Health Over Mileage: When buying a used EV, focus on a comprehensive battery health report rather than just the vehicle’s mileage.
2. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of industry trends and innovations, such as health certification programs by manufacturers.
3. Negotiate Better Deals: Use battery health information to negotiate more effectively and ensure you’re getting value for your investment.

For further exploration of electric vehicles, visit Consumer Guide and Cars.com.