At the time of writing, there were 61 electric vehicles across brands, models and variants available new within the local market, with many more due during 2024. With these vehicles becoming more common on local roads, the question surrounding warranty coverage for this new technology is more relevant than ever. Here's how an electric vehicle warranty differs from a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle warranty.
Related: How does the resale value of an electric car compare to conventional cars?
In many ways, the same
The standard warranty on many electric cars is the same as traditional cars, with coverage for the powertrain, including items such as the electric motor(s) and related components. This general warranty covers various vehicle components, excluding wear and tear items and specific component warranties, electric controllers, charging equipment, or other key elements related to the vehicle's functioning that have parallels with ICE warranties.
The key difference
The most expensive and important part of an EV's drivetrain is its battery, and this is where these products differ most from ICE vehicles, where there is a specific Battery Warranty. Manufacturers often provide warranties for specific years or kilometres, ensuring the battery retains a certain capacity.
Comparing local EV warranties
We have compared the warranty offered on the cheapest new EV in SA versus the most expensive EV in SA at the time of writing. This has been done purely to compare warranty offerings on two sides of the EV pricing spectrum and is in no way comparing the two vehicles.
| GWM Ora 03 300 Super Luxury | Porsche Taycan turbo S | |
| Price | R 686 950 | R4 414 000 |
| Warranty | 7-year/200 000km | 2-year/unlimited kilometre |
| Battery warranty | 8-year/160 000km | 8-year/160 000km |
