Are electric cars as reliable and durable as traditional cars?

Electric vehicles are particularly beneficial in terms of sustainability and their reliability is growing rapidly. As policymakers are urged to support their development, a new study has revealed even more benefits of electric vehicles.

Study based on UK data

An international team of researchers, who analysed nearly 300 million vehicle inspection records from the UK Department for Transport covering the years 2005-2022, have uncovered a number of interesting insights.

The researchers found that while early electric cars were less reliable than internal combustion engine cars, rapid technological advances have enabled newer electric cars to achieve similar durability, even with more intensive use.

The reliability of electric cars has improved significantly, with a 12% lower probability of failure (hazard ratio) for each year of production, compared with 6.7% for petrol and 1.9% for diesel cars.

In addition, according to the researchers, modern electric car models last an average of 18.4 years and cover almost 200 thousand kilometers. And their mileage exceeds that of traditional gasoline cars.

Brands with the best longevity indicators

The researchers also identified the brands with the best vehicle longevity indicators.

Tesla is the leader among electric cars. Among gasoline and diesel vehicles, Audi and Skoda achieved the best results.

“Electric cars are no longer just a niche alternative – they are a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. They are an important tool for achieving a future with zero carbon dioxide emissions,” said one of the study’s authors, Dr. Viet Nguyen-Tien.

Robert Elliott, another author of the study, said electric cars have significant environmental benefits, especially as Europe transitions to renewable energy.

“Despite higher initial emissions, a long-lasting electric vehicle can quickly offset its carbon footprint and thus contribute to the fight against climate change,” he said.

Impact on consumers and policymakers

The researchers said their findings provide consumers with reliable data on which to make informed vehicle purchasing decisions.

Meanwhile, policymakers can use their insights to shape regulations and incentives that encourage the use of durable and environmentally friendly vehicles and plan for their end-of-life in advance.

The study highlights the importance of technological advances in promoting the use of electric vehicles.

It also provides valuable insights into fleet replacement strategies and planning for the effective recycling of electric vehicles at the end of their life.