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What is the lifespan of hybrid batteries?
While there has been considerable research on the life of full EV batteries, I wondered if you have any advice on battery life in hybrid cars. I am looking to purchase a used hybrid car, but I wonder if there is an age or mileage beyond which the batteries may have started to degrade? Clearly, this would not stop the vehicle from running, but I assume the fuel economy benefits will reduce over time? Any advice welcome.
Asked on 19 June 2023 by Ron Mobbs
Answered by
David Ross
All batteries will degrade from the first day of use, but with hybrid vehicles the impact is not as significant as the batteries are not in use all of the time and are only partly responsible for providing drive to the wheels.
Although mileage plays a part in how much batteries have degraded it also depends on how the vehicle has been driven. Urban driving will mean more use of the batteries compared to motorway speeds, so theoretically a car that spends more time on the motorway will have a longer battery life. A degraded battery will be able to operate less of the time, so fuel economy will be reduced as the battery ages.
However, cars like the Toyota Prius have been around a long time and many examples have gone past 200,000 miles, so a hybrid is capable of big mileages.
Although mileage plays a part in how much batteries have degraded it also depends on how the vehicle has been driven. Urban driving will mean more use of the batteries compared to motorway speeds, so theoretically a car that spends more time on the motorway will have a longer battery life. A degraded battery will be able to operate less of the time, so fuel economy will be reduced as the battery ages.
However, cars like the Toyota Prius have been around a long time and many examples have gone past 200,000 miles, so a hybrid is capable of big mileages.
If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.
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