In recent years, debates about the reliability of electric vehicle batteries have never ceased. Drivers, automakers, and even skeptics closely monitor every new study, since battery condition affects not only the cost of ownership but the future of the entire industry. Against this backdrop, the results of a recent analysis by international company Geotab turned out to be surprisingly optimistic: in 2025, the average annual battery degradation amounted to just 2.3%. Although slightly higher than last year, this figure still falls short of the worrying forecasts promoted by EV critics.
However, behind these bare numbers lies a much more interesting picture. It turns out that not only age or mileage affects battery health. The key factor is charging strategy: the more often a driver uses fast charging, the faster the battery ages. And while modern technology allows electric vehicles to be charged in just minutes, this convenience comes at the price of accelerated wear.
Study details
Geotab, specializing in telematics and fleet management, analyzed data in 2025 from more than 22,700 electric vehicles belonging to 21 different brands. This scale made it possible to obtain the most objective picture. The study was based on real-world operating data rather than laboratory tests, which is especially valuable for owners and fleet operators.
The analysis revealed that regularly using chargers with more than 100 kW of power can nearly double battery wear—from 1.5% to 3% per year. While this isn’t catastrophic, it’s not insignificant for long-term use. For private owners the difference may not be critical, but for companies managing hundreds of vehicles, such nuances can seriously affect costs.
The impact of charging habits
Geotab experts emphasize that choosing a charging mode is not just a matter of convenience. Fast charging is a lifesaver in emergencies, but if it becomes routine, the battery will lose capacity much faster. Moderation, however, is your best ally. Using medium-power charging stations helps preserve battery life without sacrificing mobility.
Interestingly, even as fast charging grows more popular and usage intensity increases, overall battery condition remains stable. This points to the high quality of modern batteries and effective charge management systems. Nevertheless, experts advise against frequently using maximum power unless absolutely necessary.
Fleet implications
For corporate clients, the study’s findings are especially important. Fleet operators can now more accurately forecast maintenance and battery replacement costs. Geotab recommends building charging schedules based on actual needs rather than merely the speed of range replenishment. This approach not only extends battery life but also reduces overall expenses.
Nevertheless, even under intensive use, most batteries retain over 90% of their original capacity after several years. This dispels myths about rapid degradation and proves that electric vehicles are becoming increasingly reliable and cost-effective for businesses.
Trends and Prospects
The electric vehicle market continues to grow, and with it, the demands on batteries. Manufacturers are investing in new technologies to make batteries even more durable and resilient to extreme conditions. It is already clear that concerns about rapid capacity loss are largely exaggerated. However, careful attention to charging routines remains crucial—a simple rule that can extend the life of even the most advanced batteries.
RUSSPAIN reminds that Geotab is an international company specializing in fleet management and monitoring solutions. Founded in Canada, it operates in more than 130 countries and serves millions of vehicles worldwide. Geotab is a leader in telematics innovation, helping clients optimize operational costs and improve fleet efficiency.
