How does fast charging affect Geotab's EV battery degradation study?

Geotab's study found that frequent DC fast charging can double the rate of EV battery degradation compared to slower charging methods.

What is the average annual battery degradation for EVs?

On average, EV batteries lose just over 2% of their capacity each year, with fast charging accelerating this natural process.

Can charging behavior impact my EV's battery lifespan?

Yes, charging behavior plays a significant role. Opting for slower charging can help manage long-term risk and extend battery health.

Home / Technology / EV Battery Health: Fast Charging Accelerates Degradation

EV Battery Health: Fast Charging Accelerates Degradation

19 Jan

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Summary

Fast charging can double EV battery degradation compared to slow charging.
EV batteries naturally lose over 2% capacity annually.
Charging behavior significantly impacts battery aging, offering management opportunities.

EV Battery Health: Fast Charging Accelerates Degradation

New research indicates that frequent use of high-power DC fast chargers can accelerate electric vehicle (EV) battery degradation by up to 100% compared to slower charging methods. On average, EV batteries lose slightly over 2% of their capacity each year. However, a study analyzing data from over 22,700 EVs found that predominantly using fast chargers can result in an annual degradation rate of 3%, whereas slow charging leads to only 1.5% loss.

This trend is observed as countries expand rapid charging networks, offering quicker replenishment for EV owners. Battery degradation is a natural process, but charging behavior now presents a significant factor in battery aging. While EV batteries generally maintain strong health beyond typical fleet replacement cycles, owners can optimize performance and longevity by adopting smart charging strategies. For instance, EVs consistently using over 12% DC fast charging experienced an increased average annual degradation of 2.5%.