Although EVs demand less maintenance overall, the repairs they do require are often more technical and require specialized knowledge and equipment. As a result, if something does go wrong, the cost of fixing an EV can be higher compared to a traditional gas-powered car.
For example, battery replacements can easily cost thousands of dollars. Repairing or replacing electric motors, inverters, or controllers also requires the expertise of specialized technicians and specific equipment, which can add up to significant costs.
Industry experts estimate an average high voltage battery has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years in moderate climates and 8 to 12 years in extreme temperature areas. One leading manufacturer surveyed its customers and found that even after 160,000 miles of use, their high voltage battery still maintained up to 90% of its charging capacity.
Additionally, it’s important to note that electric vehicles are generally heavier. On average, an EV’s battery can weigh over 1,000 pounds. To put it into perspective, the EV Hummer, one of the heaviest vehicles ever made, surpasses a staggering 9,000 pounds! Due to this added weight, EV tires tend to wear out 20% faster than those of gas-powered vehicles.