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The closing longevity gap between battery electric vehicles and internal combustion vehicles in Great Britain

Author

Listed:
  • Viet Nguyen-Tien

    (Centre for Economic Performance, London School of Economics and Political Science)

  • Chengyu Zhang

    (Department of Economics, University of California San Diego)

  • Eric Strobl

    (Department of Economics, University of Birmingham
    Department of Economics, University of Bern)

  • Robert J. R. Elliott

    (Department of Economics, University of Birmingham)

Abstract

Electric vehicles are increasingly being adopted in Great Britain and other parts of the world, driven by the perception that they offer a cost-effective alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles while reducing emissions. However, a key element that underpins this perception is the longevity of electric vehicles, which remains relatively under researched. Here we show that although early battery electric vehicles (BEVs) exhibited lower reliability than internal combustion engine vehicles, rapid technological advancements have allowed newer BEVs to achieve comparable lifespans, even under more intensive use. Longevity is also found to be impacted by engine size, location and make of vehicle. We provide parameter estimates for life mileage that can be used to update life cycle assessment and total cost of ownership studies of different vehicle powertrains. Our results also shed light on BEV diffusion patterns, fleet replacement strategies and end-of-life treatment planning, including the increasingly important debate around BEV battery recycling and second-life options.

Suggested Citation

  • Viet Nguyen-Tien & Chengyu Zhang & Eric Strobl & Robert J. R. Elliott, 2025. "The closing longevity gap between battery electric vehicles and internal combustion vehicles in Great Britain," Nature Energy, Nature, vol. 10(3), pages 354-364, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natene:v:10:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1038_s41560-024-01698-1
    DOI: 10.1038/s41560-024-01698-1
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