New Arval data supports lack of battery degradation on used EVs

LEASING provider and broker funder Arval has released new data that dispels the myth around battery degradation on used EVs.

The compelling findings should inject significant confidence into the burgeoning used electric vehicle (EV) market, with analysis derived from a substantial sample of 8,300 battery health certificates across 30 different brands.

The analysis, covering EVs sold by Arval between March 2023 and November 2024 in eight European countries, suggests quite clearly that EV batteries are remarkably resilient.

Concerns surrounding the longevity and performance of EV batteries have long been a perceived hurdle for potential buyers, particularly in the used vehicle sector. Arval’s proactive study directly addresses these apprehensions, offering a data-backed perspective that underscores the enduring health of these crucial components.

The headline figures suggest strong used EV battery health

Across the extensive sample, the average battery health registered an impressive 93% of its original capacity.
A remarkable 98% of the tested EVs demonstrated a battery health exceeding the 80% threshold, often considered a benchmark for continued strong performance.
Even after clocking up an average of 70,000kms (435,000 miles), the average battery state of health remained robust at 93%.
Beyond the 200,000-kilometre mark (124.3k miles), the average battery health only marginally dipped, holding steady at close to 90%.

This data directly challenges the common misconception of rapid battery degradation, offering tangible reassurance to both consumers and the wider automotive industry. Arval is now advocating for greater transparency within the sector, urging the widespread adoption of battery health certificates to foster trust and facilitate informed purchasing decisions in the used EV market.

UK market reflects positive trend

Gary Burns, Remarketing Director at Arval UK, commented on the significance of these findings for the domestic market:

“In the UK, the state-of-health of a used EV battery is an important factor for our buyers – both consumers and motor dealers. In 2024, we began testing on our used EVs at some UK sites, with around 1,400 used cars going through this process so far.

“Our solution displays the data the car holds on its current state of battery health to show how much of the battery capacity is still usable. The information can then be shared with our customers so they have a current view of the performance of the battery. As a growing number of customers transition to battery electric vehicles, it’s vital that we’re transparent throughout our sales processes.

“Battery health is an important factor when it comes to electric vehicles, so buyers need access to clear, accurate details. This initiative does that, and is a key part of our broader commitment to electric vehicle education and supporting our customers in making sustainable, informed choices.”

Arval offers battery health certificates

Arval says it is the first leasing company to provide battery health certificates for EVs on resale. It aims to alleviate buyer concerns and stimulate the used EV market by removing a significant perceived barrier.

Through a user-friendly interface, prospective buyers gain access to a QR code for each vehicle, generating a detailed battery health certificate. This certificate provides crucial information, including the battery capacity percentage relative to its original state and estimated range calculations for various driving conditions.

Arval has partnered with industry-leading battery evaluation specialists Moba and Aviloo (see image, left), both accredited by CARA (Car Remarketing Association Europe), to ensure independent and reliable assessments. In the absence of a unified European standard for battery evaluation, Arval’s reliance on CARA-approved methodologies underscores their commitment to providing credible and trustworthy data.

Bart Beckers, Chief Commercial Officer at Arval (right), emphasised the broader implications of this initiative: “This analysis, along with the issuance of electric vehicle battery state of health certificates, fully illustrates Arval’s expertise and commitment to accelerating the energy transition. By providing concrete insights, they help remove barriers and change perceptions that can hinder the re-sell of electric vehicles. A transparent approach is essential to build consumer trust and to stimulate a still-developing used market.”

Arval’s says its data-driven approach is poised to reshape perceptions of used EV value and longevity, potentially unlocking significant growth in this crucial segment of the automotive market.

Arval added that it will undoubtedly be welcomed by brokers and dealers alike, providing valuable ammunition to address customer concerns and drive EV adoption forward.