Yes, EV batteries do gradually lose some capacity over time – just like the battery in your smartphone holds less charge after a few years of use. However, the rate of degradation in modern EVs is manageable. Most manufacturers guarantee that their battery will retain at least 70–80% of its original capacity after 5–8 years or a set number of kilometres, whichever comes first.
In real-world use, many owners report negligible range loss in the first three to four years. Several factors influence degradation: frequent DC fast charging, consistently charging to 100%, regularly depleting to near zero, and sustained exposure to extreme heat all accelerate it.
For Indian conditions, parking in shade, using home AC charging for daily top-ups, and keeping the battery between 20–80% for everyday use are simple habits that make a meaningful difference. Battery replacement costs are also falling steadily, making long-term EV ownership more economical year on year.
