Researchers debunk widespread myth about electric vehicles: ‘Unfounded’ – The Cool Down

Report on Electric Vehicle Battery Longevity and its Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

A large-scale study conducted by the Swedish used-car marketplace, Kvdbil, provides conclusive evidence on the durability of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, directly challenging and refuting common myths regarding rapid degradation. The research, which analyzed the State of Health (SoH) of over 1,300 used electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, offers significant positive implications for consumer confidence and the advancement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Findings of the Study

The empirical data from the analysis demonstrates the high resilience and longevity of modern EV battery technology. The primary conclusions are as follows:

1. High Capacity Retention: Eight out of ten vehicles surveyed retained more than 90% of their original battery capacity, indicating that degradation is significantly slower than popularly perceived.
2. Top Performing Models: The study identified several models with exceptional battery performance, including the Kia EV6, Kia e-Niro, and the Tesla Model Y.
3. Technological Advancement: The slow rate of degradation is attributed to advanced battery management technologies, including sophisticated cooling systems for battery cells, which contributes to the overall durability of the vehicle.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The study’s findings are pivotal for accelerating progress toward multiple SDGs by validating the long-term viability of electric mobility as a sustainable solution.

• SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) & SDG 13 (Climate Action): By confirming the long lifespan of EV batteries, the study supports the transition to cleaner energy for transportation. Durable batteries make EVs a more economically viable and reliable alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
• SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): The widespread adoption of EVs, encouraged by proven battery longevity, is essential for reducing urban air and noise pollution. This fosters healthier, more sustainable urban environments and improves the quality of life for city dwellers.
• SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): The extended lifecycle of EV batteries promotes a circular economy. Longer-lasting batteries reduce the demand for new raw materials, minimize waste, and, coupled with advancements in battery recycling, support sustainable production patterns. This directly counters the linear “take-make-dispose” model.
• SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): The research underscores the success of innovation in green technology. It validates the significant investments made in battery science and engineering, encouraging further development of resilient and sustainable infrastructure to support a global fleet of electric vehicles.

Conclusion

The Kvdbil study effectively debunks the myth of rapid EV battery degradation, establishing that modern batteries are engineered for longevity and are likely to outlast the vehicles themselves. This evidence is critical for shifting consumer perspectives on the used EV market and, more importantly, reinforces the role of electric mobility as a cornerstone strategy for achieving global sustainability targets. The proven durability of EV batteries directly supports goals related to clean energy, climate action, sustainable cities, and responsible production, making EVs a sound long-term investment for both consumers and the planet.

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The article on the longevity of electric vehicle (EV) batteries connects to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by highlighting advancements in sustainable technology, its economic viability, and its environmental benefits.

• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

  The article supports SDG 7 by discussing a key technology for transitioning the transport sector to cleaner energy sources. EVs are a crucial component of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and increasing energy efficiency in transportation.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

  The focus on “advanced technology and smart design” in EV batteries directly relates to innovation. The study itself, and the resulting confidence in the secondhand EV market, contribute to building resilient infrastructure and promoting sustainable industrialization.

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

  By promoting the adoption of EVs, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, the article indirectly addresses the goal of making cities more sustainable. Widespread EV use can significantly reduce urban air pollution and improve public health.

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

  The article’s main point—that EV batteries are durable and long-lasting—promotes responsible consumption by encouraging the use and reuse of products (through the secondhand market). It also mentions that batteries are “becoming recyclable,” which aligns with the goal of reducing waste and managing resources sustainably.

• SDG 13: Climate Action

  The shift from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs is a critical strategy for climate action. By debunking myths about battery life, the article encourages wider EV adoption, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, a major contributor to climate change.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s discussion of EV battery technology and its implications, several specific SDG targets can be identified:

• Target 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.

  EVs are inherently more energy-efficient than traditional ICE vehicles. The article’s findings, which encourage consumer confidence and adoption of EVs, support the transition to more energy-efficient transportation, contributing directly to this target.

• Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.

  The article highlights the “advanced technology” of modern EV batteries. This represents the adoption of clean and environmentally sound technology within the automotive industry. The growing secondhand market is part of the evolving infrastructure supporting this sustainable shift.

• Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

  By proving the viability and longevity of EVs, the article supports a key solution for reducing urban air pollution. EVs have no tailpipe emissions, directly improving air quality in cities and thus reducing their adverse environmental impact.

• Target 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.

  The article addresses this target in two ways. First, by confirming that batteries “outlast the vehicles themselves,” it promotes the prevention of premature waste. Second, it explicitly states that batteries are “becoming recyclable,” which is a key component of reducing waste from the EV lifecycle.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions and implies several indicators that can be used to measure progress:

• Indicator for Battery Durability and Resource Efficiency (related to Targets 9.4 and 12.5):

  The article provides a direct, quantifiable indicator: the “State of Health” (SoH) of EV batteries. The study’s finding that “eight out of 10 used EVs retained more than 90% of their original battery capacity” serves as a specific metric to measure the longevity and efficiency of this technology. This can be used to track improvements in battery design and manufacturing over time.

• Indicator for Waste Reduction and Recycling (related to Target 12.5):

  The mention that batteries are “becoming recyclable” implies the existence of, or need for, an indicator such as the “recycling rate of EV batteries” or the “percentage of materials recovered from used batteries.” While the article doesn’t provide a number, it points to this as a crucial measure of sustainability in the EV industry.

• Indicator for Adoption of Clean Technology (related to Targets 7.3 and 11.6):

  The article implies the importance of the “market share of used electric vehicles” as an indicator. A growing and confident secondhand market, as discussed in the article, signals wider public acceptance and adoption of EVs, which is essential for achieving energy efficiency and clean air goals.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: thecooldown.com