European Study: EVs Prove More Reliable Than Combustion Engine Vehicles
In the comparison between EVs and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, reliability has emerged as a critical differentiator. New research from the German Automobile Club (ADAC), Europe’s largest roadside assistance provider, reveals that EVs are quietly outperforming ICE vehicles in dependability.
Methodology and Key Findings
ADAC analysts processed over 3.6 million vehicle breakdowns in the past year, maintaining meticulous records of each incident. Their data-driven analysis concludes that EVs exhibit a lower failure rate than ICE vehicles. In 2024, ADAC confirmed for the first time—with robust statistical confidence—that EV reliability surpasses that of conventional cars, a trend further solidified by an additional year of data.
While the absolute number of EV rescue requests reached an all-time high, they constituted just 1.2% of total incidents (43,678 cases). For vehicles first registered between 2020 and 2022, EVs recorded 4.2 failures per 1,000 vehicles, compared to 10.4 failures per 1,000 for ICE vehicles (Handelsblatt).
Common Failure Patterns
A surprising commonality emerged: the 12-volt battery is the most frequent culprit for both vehicle types. It accounted for 50% of EV breakdowns and 45% of ICE failures. In nearly every other category—electrical systems, engine management, and lighting—ICE vehicles experienced equal or higher failure rates than EVs
Notably, EVs faced more tire-related issues (1.3 tire-related rescues per 1,000 calls vs. 0.9 for ICE cars). However, this discrepancy appears to diminish in newer EV models, suggesting design improvements.
Structural Advantages of EVs
EVs inherently benefit from simpler mechanics. Lacking complex powertrain components—such as oil systems, transmissions, and multi-piston engines—they have fewer moving parts prone to wear and tear. This fundamental design difference reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures, a key factor in their reliability edge.
Limitations and Long-Term Outlook
ADAC acknowledges there is room for improvement: pure EVs remain a relatively new category, and long-term data (e.g., beyond 10 years of use) is limited. However, current trends are promising: EV reliability is accelerating, even before considering their environmental benefits. As battery technology and manufacturing processes evolve, EVs are poised to become not just greener but also more practically reliable than their ICE counterparts.
Conclusion
The ADAC study adds to a growing body of evidence that EVs are dispelling earlier reliability concerns. With simpler architectures, fewer maintenance needs, and rapid technological advancements, they are challenging the narrative that ICE vehicles are more dependable. For consumers prioritizing longevity and low ownership costs, EVs now offer a compelling case—both on sustainability and mechanical durability.
