Electric vehicles (EVs) now have lifespans comparable to or longer than petrol and diesel cars, according to a study published in Nature Energy.
Researchers analysed nearly 300 million UK Ministry of Transport (MOT) test records from 2005 to 2022, revealing that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) achieve an average lifespan of 18.4 years and can travel up to 124,000 miles, surpassing the typical lifespan of petrol cars.
While earlier EV models showed lower reliability than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the study found significant improvements in newer BEVs.
Each successive year of BEV production showed a 12% reduction in failure likelihood, compared to 6.7% for petrol vehicles and 1.9% for diesel.
“Our findings provide critical insights into the lifespan and environmental impact of electric vehicles,” said Dr. Viet Nguyen-Tien of the London School of Economics and Political Science. “No longer just a niche option, BEVs are a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles.”
The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Birmingham, LSE, University of California San Diego, and University of Bern, highlighted Tesla as the top-performing BEV brand, with Audi and Skoda leading in petrol and diesel categories, respectively.
“BEVs offer significant environmental benefits, especially as Europe switches to a more renewable energy mix,” said Professor Robert Elliott from the University of Birmingham. He noted that despite higher emissions during production, long-lasting EVs can quickly offset their carbon footprint.
The research provides valuable data for consumers, policymakers, and industries looking to develop strategies for fleet upgrades, vehicle recycling, and sustainable transportation growth.
This series covers the developing electric vehicles market of the UK and its increasing infrastructure, as the nation advances its net-zero goals. For all things EV, don’t miss out on your free ticket to EVCharge Live UK – taking place 23-25 September 2025.
