New Analysis Ranks EV Battery Capacity Retention
See how your electric vehicle model performs regarding battery health after 62,000 miles of regular use.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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A 2022-2026 analysis of 9,954 electric vehicle battery tests reveals how various models maintain capacity over time. Kia and Hyundai models led the results, with several vehicles retaining over 95% of their original battery health after 62,000 miles of use.
Why it matters
Battery degradation is a primary concern for long-term ownership costs and vehicle resale values. Understanding how different battery chemistries and designs age helps owners set realistic expectations for their vehicle's range and longevity over the life of the car.
The Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Kona demonstrated the highest performance, retaining 97.25% and 97.18% capacity respectively at 62,000 miles. Other models like the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Tesla Model Y retained 94.70% and 92.18% respectively.
The players
Kia
A South Korean automaker producing a wide range of electric vehicles known for their battery management and powertrain efficiency.
Hyundai
A global automotive manufacturer from South Korea that shares battery technology platforms across several of its high-performing electric models.
AVILOO
A technology firm providing battery diagnostic systems used to measure the state of health and energy capacity of lithium-ion batteries.
Carla
A Swedish-based electric vehicle marketplace that commissioned and conducted the battery health analysis.
The details
Researchers utilized specialized diagnostic technology developed by AVILOO to assess battery health across a wide range of electric vehicles. By standardizing the comparison at 62,000 miles, the analysis isolates how much energy storage capacity remains after years of operation. The data focuses on models that have sufficient population sizes to ensure the diagnostic findings are statistically reliable for owners.
Timeline
The battery performance study was conducted between 2022 and 2026.
The Home Front
The long-term health of an EV battery is now a key factor in assessing total cost of ownership for household vehicles. This performance data provides a comparative benchmark that reflects how modern battery management systems compare to historical degradation models.
If you own an electric vehicle, check your manufacturer's warranty regarding battery health, which often covers specific capacity thresholds. Keep maintenance records of your charging history, as consistent use of home Level 2 charging is often recommended by experts for battery longevity.
The takeaway
Battery capacity retention varies significantly by model, even among widely used electric vehicles. Owners can monitor their own vehicle's health by utilizing professional diagnostic tools or authorized dealer checks during annual service appointments.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations and maintenance guidance in our Electric Vehicles section.
Live Poll
Do you feel confident in the long-term reliability of a used electric vehicle battery?
