The world of electric vehicles continues to evolve, and one of the most critical aspects for owners is understanding how their vehicle’s battery will age over time. A recent test on a six-year-old Audi e-tron 55 SUV has revealed some fascinating insights about EV battery longevity and the impact of charging habits on battery health.
Acquired about a year and a half ago with approximately 45,000 km on the odometer, this Audi e-tron 55 has been primarily charged at home, usually to 80% capacity. The current owner reports an indicated range of about 300 km under these conditions. This careful charging approach appears to have paid off, as the vehicle’s battery shows impressive signs of longevity.
A detailed look at the battery health test
In a video published by ELEKTROBAYS, the Audi e-tron 55 underwent a battery health check using the Aviloo Flash test. This quick assessment revealed that the vehicle still retains 76 kWh of usable capacity, which represents about 90.8% of its original 86 kWh capacity. This means the battery has lost only roughly 1.2% of its capacity over the last 18 months, a result that speaks volumes about the vehicle’s careful usage and maintenance.
The test results seem to confirm a pattern observed in many electric vehicles: batteries tend to experience more significant degradation in their early years, with the rate of degradation slowing down as they age. The owner’s charging habits, particularly the rare use of DC fast charginghave likely contributed to this impressive battery health. When the owner did use fast charging, the e-tron reached its peak DC fast-charging power rating of 150 kW, completing a 10-80% charge in around 22-23 minutes.
The benefits of buying a used electric vehicle
The Audi e-tron 55 featured in this test offers valuable insights for those considering purchasing a used electric vehicle. The current owner acquired the vehicle for €36,000, which is approximately one-third of its original price. This significant price reduction makes used EVs an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking to enter the electric vehicle market.
However, it’s essential to approach used EV purchases with caution. While this particular Audi e-tron demonstrates excellent battery health, not all used EVs will be in the same condition. The cost of replacing an EV battery can be substantial, making it crucial to thoroughly assess the battery’s health before making a purchase. Services like the Aviloo Flash test can provide valuable insights into a vehicle’s battery condition, helping buyers make more informed decisions.
The Audi e-tron is one of the original premium electric SUVs, and finding one with a healthy battery can be a worthwhile investment. As this test demonstrates, the key factor when buying a used EV isn’t necessarily its age or mileage, but rather the unknown condition of the battery. By properly evaluating the battery’s health, buyers can transform what might seem like a risky purchase into a smart investment.
