Geotab, a company specializing in geographic information and the Internet of Vehicles, has released a large-scale real-world vehicle analysis indicating that frequent utilization of ultra-fast charging stations, with power outputs exceeding 100 kilowatts, nearly doubles the aging rate of electric vehicle (EV) power batteries. The comprehensive study, encompassing 21 vehicle models and over 22,700 EVs, underscores a direct link between charging habits and battery longevity. The data elucidates that when fast charging constitutes more than 40% of total charging and the power exceeds 100 kilowatts, the average annual battery degradation rate soars to 3%, leaving only 76% of the battery's original capacity after 8 years. Conversely, when fast charging accounts for less than 12%, the average annual degradation rate is a mere 1.5%, with 88% of the battery's capacity retained after the same period. Geotab emphasizes that the escalating use of fast charging and the concurrent increase in average charging power are the principal factors contributing to the heightened battery degradation rate. Furthermore, commercial vehicles such as trucks and MPVs, which prioritize driving range, feature battery designs that may compromise on lifespan, leading to higher average annual degradation rates compared to sedans. The study advocates for prioritizing slow charging for daily use and avoiding extended periods of full or low battery charge to prolong battery lifespan.
