Electric Car Endurance: Ready to Compete with Gasoline Engines

KatadataOTO – A recent study conducted by the University of Birmingham, London, has revealed that the reliability of electric cars is increasingly competitive. Their lifespan is no shorter than that of gasoline or diesel-powered cars.

The research was conducted with a number of experts from the University of California San Diego and the University of Bern, Switzerland. The conclusion was drawn from the analysis of 300 million Ministry of Transport test data from the period 2005 to 2022.

It was found that the current lifespan of an EV (Electric Vehicle) is about 18.4 years, with a mileage that can reach more than 124 thousand miles or about 199.5 thousand kilometers.

Previously, electric cars were considered less reliable. However, over time, the chance of damage or technological failure in EVs has decreased by an average of 12 percent per year, approaching that of gasoline cars (6.7 percent) and diesel-powered cars (1.9 percent).

Photo : BYD

“Long-lasting electric cars can offset the carbon footprint (from EV production), contribute to combating climate change, and make them a long-term and sustainable option,” said Robert Elliot, a professor of economics at the University of Birmingham, quoted from his official statement on Thursday (30/1).

The durability of electric cars is largely supported by the integration of the latest technology by manufacturers. Elliot emphasized that he hopes these findings can serve as a reference for the public before purchasing a vehicle. 

“Meanwhile, policymakers can use our data to determine regulations and incentives to support the adoption of durable, environmentally friendly vehicles, as well as to plan for their end-of-life management,” he asserted.

Explained in more detail, Tesla ranks first for electric cars with the highest reliability. Meanwhile, gasoline and diesel cars are led by Audi and Skoda.

Photo : Glamour Auto Boutique

“No longer a niche choice, EVs are a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional vehicles, a significant step towards a carbon-free future,” said Dr. Viet Nguyen-Tien, co-author from the University of Birmingham, London School of Economics and Political Science.

For your information, in Indonesia, the adoption of electric vehicles is also being increasingly promoted and they are starting to be widely used by the public. In addition to the diverse models, some manufacturers assemble their products locally to obtain incentives.

As a result, there are affordable electric car options starting from Rp 179.1 million and up. Meanwhile, an off-road SUV like the Chery J6 is offered at around Rp 400 million, with CKD (Completely Knocked Down) status.