A 10-year-old Tesla Model S has retained more than 88% of its original battery capacity after a decade of use, according to an independent battery test shared by the owner through an electric-vehicle-focused YouTube channel, offering fresh insights into the long-term durability of early-generation EVs.
Tom, host of the YouTube channel Ludicrous Feed, recently documented his experience owning a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D since new. The vehicle, equipped with a 69 kWh battery pack and originally rated for about 350 km (218 miles) of range, has accumulated roughly 121,000 km (75,000 miles). A third-party diagnostic assessment showed the battery now holds about 61 kWh of usable capacity, equivalent to approximately 88.1% of its original energy storage.
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The results add to a growing body of real-world data suggesting that Tesla’s early battery packs have aged more slowly than many early critics anticipated. Similar findings have emerged in recent years, including reports of high-mileage Model S vehicles exceeding 400,000 miles with battery degradation of just over 20%, without requiring full battery replacement.
While the vehicle’s mileage is relatively modest for its age, the test underscores the impact of calendar aging in addition to usage-related degradation. Industry analysts note that battery replacement remains one of the most expensive potential repairs for EV owners. However, this is often offset by lower routine maintenance costs compared with internal combustion engine vehicles, due to the absence of oil changes, exhaust systems and complex multi-speed transmissions.
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Aside from a known issue involving door handle motor replacements outside of warranty, the owner reported no major mechanical complaints after a decade of ownership. The case continues to support the view that early mass-produced electric vehicles can deliver long service lives with manageable performance loss in their battery systems.