High-mileage electric vehicles remain relatively rare in documented testing, which makes this example particularly notable. The car, examined by the Canadian outlet Drive Protected, offers a clear look at how battery degradation unfolds over extensive use. The vehicle now delivers about 158 miles on a full charge, down from 240 miles when new.
Battery wear is often cited as a key concern for potential EV buyers. This Model 3 illustrates that while capacity loss is substantial over time, usability does not necessarily disappear alongside it.
Significant Capacity Loss After Extensive Use
The tested Model 3 shows a range reduction of 82 miles compared to its original specification, representing a 34.2% loss in capacity. According to InsideEVs, the car displayed 158 miles of range after being charged to 100%, a notable drop from the initial 240 miles when new.
This level of degradation places the battery below 70% of its original capacity, a threshold often considered for replacement. The vehicle, still equipped with its original battery pack, demonstrates the long-term effects of sustained high mileage without component swaps.
Real-World Highway Test Confirms Reduced Energy Capacity
Drive Protected conducted a highway range test to assess real-world performance. The car was driven at a steady 110 km/h (68 mph), with ambient temperatures rising from 11°C to 23°C during the run.
At the end of the test, the vehicle reached 0% battery after covering 138.3 miles (222.6 km). The average consumption was recorded at 4.27 miles per kWh (14.55 kWh/100 km), resulting in a total energy use of 32.4 kWh. This figure is significantly lower than the original 49 kWh capacity, aligning with the observed reduction in range.
Usability Remains Despite Degradation
Even with the reduced capacity, the vehicle continues to function without reported mechanical issues beyond range loss. A remaining range of over 150 miles can still meet the needs of drivers with shorter daily commutes.
The case underscores a broader point about EV longevity. While battery degradation is unavoidable and varies depending on usage, this Model 3 shows that even after 380,000 miles, the car remains operational and practical for certain use cases.
