Volkswagen ID.3 Proves EV Battery Durability With 91% Health After 160,000km – ADAC Long-Term Test Results Are In

One of the biggest concerns for potential electric vehicle (EV) buyers is battery degradation — will the battery still perform well after years of use? A new long-term test by Germany's largest automobile club, ADAC, offers some much-needed clarity and reassurance.

In a rigorous four-year, 160,000 km test, the Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S delivered impressive results. Despite facing extreme real-world conditions — including frequent DC fast charging (used in over 40% of sessions), prolonged periods parked at 100% charge, and general disregard for best battery care practices — the high-voltage 77kWh battery retained 91% of its original capacity.

📊 That’s well above Volkswagen’s official warranty benchmark, which guarantees 70% battery health after 8 years or 160,000 km across its ID. electric lineup.

Key Takeaways from the ADAC Endurance Test:

✅ 91% battery capacity after 160,000 km

⚡ 40%+ charging done with DC fast chargers

🚫 Frequently left charged at 100% — no manual battery care

🔧 No major mechanical issues: suspension, chassis & steering held up well

🔄 OTA software updates improved:

Charging speed (up to 170 kW)

EV route planning with charger & traffic integration

Range and efficiency, especially in cold weather

This test proves that modern EV batteries are more durable than many assume, and can withstand daily use without major loss in performance. It also underscores the importance of software updates — unlike gas-powered cars, EVs like the ID.3 can actually improve over time.

Volkswagen Board Member Martin Sander summarized it perfectly:

> “A high battery capacity of over 90 percent after 160,000 kilometers confirms that our ID. models are also very attractive as used cars.”

With strong real-world results like this, the Volkswagen ID.3 stands out as a reliable and long-lasting electric vehicle — even for second-hand buyers.