Summary:
A new study suggests that electric vehicle EV battery life could last up to 40% longer than previously believed, challenging conventional thinking and providing new insights into battery degradation. Conducted by the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center, the study analyzed 92 commercial lithium-ion batteries over two years, considering various driving conditions and charging patterns that better reflect real-world use, as opposed to traditional lab assumptions that use a constant discharge-recharge cycle.
One key finding of the study is that frequent sharp and short acceleration can actually slow battery degradation, which contradicts the common belief that smooth driving prolongs battery life. Additionally, the research highlights that regenerative braking and allowing batteries to rest also contribute to longer battery life.
The research tested four discharge profiles based on different driving scenarios, from short urban trips to long road trips with stop-and-go traffic, and examined the impact of varying charging habits, including daily Level 2 charging and occasional DC fast-charging. This approach provides a more accurate picture of how batteries degrade under real-world conditions.
The study’s findings could have significant implications for EV owners and manufacturers, as it suggests that adopting specific driving and charging habits can extend battery life. It also emphasizes the need for automakers to update EV battery management software to incorporate these new insights.
Driving
Read the Full Article
