Arguably the most essential part of an electric vehicle is the battery pack. No matter the type of EV (e.g. plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles), the battery works in tandem with the electric motor and the other parts to provide power. And as EV production in Canada continues to ramp up, battery manufacturers are trying to keep up.
There are two EV battery manufacturers: OEM and aftermarket. In this blog, we will look at both groups and list the benefits and downsides of each.
What are OEM and Aftermarket EV batteries?
The terms OEM and Aftermarket are used for countless products. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. In short, OEMs produce parts/equipment specifically designed for the related product. In other words, an OEM EV battery is identical to the battery installed by the automaker. OEMs often customize designs based on the needs and specifications of the product.
The term “aftermarket” refers to items made by third-party manufacturers. Aftermarket EV batteries are designed to meet the specifications and performance of OEM batteries at a fraction of the cost.
The pros and cons of OEM EV batteries
The main benefit of an OEM EV battery is it is specifically designed for a particular EV. That makes the installation process much more manageable. An aftermarket EV battery may not have the exact dimensions as the battery slot, meaning it will either be too big or too small. While OEM batteries are expensive, they will likely save you money in the long run. Some aftermarket batteries are poorly made, meaning you will have to replace them regularly. OEMs generally have better build quality, meaning you do not have to replace them as often, saving you money. Another benefit of OEM batteries is they can come with dealership support. For example, dealerships can offer favourable warranties on the battery, such as 8-10 years or 160,000 KM.
A downside to OEM EV batteries is that they are expensive. According to J.D. Power, an EV battery can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000. You’re forced to pay these prices if your warranty on the original battery has expired.
The pros and cons of aftermarket EV batteries
Overall, aftermarket EV batteries are cheaper than OEMs. A third-party EV battery can cost around $2,000, whereas you could pay up to $20,000 for an OEM battery. However, the price difference between the two is gradually narrowing down. According to Check Engine, some OEM EV batteries cost less while offering superior quality and warranties. But at the same time, OEM EV batteries often come with extra fees, like labour/installation costs. As mentioned earlier, aftermarket EV batteries usually have an inferior build quality compared to OEMs. This is especially true with lithium-ion batteries; Check Engine recommends you stick to an OEM battery if your EV comes with a 12-volt lithium-ion battery.
How much does it cost to replace an EV battery?
Replacing an EV battery can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, although some drivers have said it cost them around $23,000. The price is based on the pack, size, and manufacturer of the battery, plus the brand and model of your EV. Labour and taxes also factor into the total cost. However, if your battery warranty is still valid, you can replace it at no expense.
How can I make my EV battery last longer?
The average lifespan of an EV battery is 15 to 20 years. Factors that negatively affect this lifespan include heat, cold snaps (e.g., -25˚C and lower) and fast charging times. Luckily, most EVs have protective measures for the battery. For example, thermal management systems help regulate the battery’s temperature and keep it at an optimal level.
There are some steps you can take to prolong your battery life. First, only charge your EV battery to 80 percent. Charging up to 100 percent puts stress on the battery pack, meaning it will degrade quickly. Likewise, do not let your battery fall to zero percent, as this also damages the battery pack and its components. In cold weather or warm weather, try to keep your car in your garage as much as possible.
How much does an EV battery weigh?
An EV battery pack weighs around 1,000 pounds. However, this varies by vehicle. Heavier vehicles will have larger battery packs, while smaller EVs will have lighter ones.
What are EV batteries made of?
Most BEV and PHEV electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries due to their strong performance, long lifespan, low self-discharge, high energy efficiency, and strong power-to-weight ratio. Lead-acid batteries are sometimes used, but they perform poorly in cold temperatures, have shorter lifecycles, and lower energy efficiency. Hybrid vehicles use nickel-metal batteries. These batteries are specifically designed to be used in HEV. Unfortunately, nickel-metal batteries are expensive and have below-average performance and energy efficiency.
