Summary
Battery degradation in Tesla cars is analyzed using real data collected from thousands of cars. The data shows that there is some degradation, especially in the early stages, but it tends to level off over time. Different cohorts of batteries show variations in degradation, with the China-built LG Chen batteries performing better than the Fremont Panasonic batteries. The Plaid models seem to have higher degradation compared to other models. Overall, the data suggests that Tesla batteries maintain a usable capacity even after significant mileage.
Highlights
01:02 The battery degradation analysis covers Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X, as well as some older cars.
02:48 Battery degradation is more pronounced in the early stages, with a drop of around 6-12% by 100,000 miles.
04:36 China-built LG Chem batteries show less degradation (6%) compared to Fremont Panasonic batteries (11%).
07:12 Performance models have a wide range of battery capacities, with variations of up to 10 kWh.
09:25 Model Y long range shows similar degradation patterns to the Model 3 long range.
11:40 Battery degradation in Model S and Model X Plaid models is higher (12-15%) compared to long-range versions (around 10%).
14:18 Early Tesla models like the Model S 85D and 90D show variations in battery capacity, with some cars holding on to more capacity than others.
Key Insights
🔋 Battery degradation is a natural process in electric vehicles, and Tesla batteries show some degradation over time. However, the data indicates that the degradation tends to level off after the initial drop, suggesting that Tesla batteries maintain a usable capacity even at higher mileage.
📊 The analysis reveals variations in battery degradation among different cohorts of batteries. The China-built LG Chen batteries appear to perform better, with lower degradation rates compared to the Fremont Panasonic batteries. This could be attributed to differences in manufacturing processes or battery chemistry.
🚀 Performance models, such as the Model 3 and Model S Plaid, show a wider range of battery capacities compared to non-performance versions. This could be due to differences in battery management strategies or the stress placed on the battery during high-performance driving.
🇺🇸 The data suggests that Tesla batteries used in the Model S and Model X Plaid models experience higher degradation compared to the long-range versions. This could be a result of the increased power demands and stress placed on the batteries in these high-performance models.
⚡️ The early Tesla models, such as the Model S 85D and 90D, show variations in battery capacity, with some cars retaining more capacity than others. This could be due to factors like manufacturing variances or replacement batteries.
🌍 Overall, the data analysis provides valuable insights into battery degradation in Tesla cars. It highlights the importance of considering different factors like manufacturing location, battery chemistry, and vehicle usage when assessing battery degradation in electric vehicles.
📈 The data suggests that Tesla batteries maintain a relatively stable capacity after the initial drop, indicating that they are designed to provide a consistent driving range throughout their lifespan. This is a positive aspect for Tesla owners, as it ensures long-term usability and value retention of their vehicles.
