These tools estimate the reduction in a Tesla’s battery capacity over time. They typically use factors like mileage, age, charging habits, and environmental conditions to project the remaining range and overall battery health as a percentage of its original capacity. For example, an estimator might suggest that a Model 3 with 50,000 miles and primarily charged to 80% will retain 92% of its original battery capacity.
The value of these projections lies in providing prospective buyers of used Teslas with insights into the long-term ownership costs associated with battery replacement or diminished range. Owners can also use these tools to understand how their charging and driving behaviors might impact battery longevity, potentially adjusting their habits to maximize battery life. Historically, these evaluations have evolved from simple rules of thumb to more sophisticated models incorporating real-world data and machine learning algorithms.
