Geotab Study: Frequent High-Power Fast Charging Can Double the Aging Speed of Electric Vehicle Batteries
2 day ago / Read about 0 minute
Author:小编   

A decade into the era of electric mobility, a large-scale analysis by telematics company Geotab reveals that long-term frequent use of high-power fast charging significantly accelerates the aging of electric vehicle battery packs. The analysis, covering data from over 22,700 vehicles across 21 models, found that batteries frequently charged at powers exceeding 100 kilowatts experienced degradation roughly twice as fast as those charged at lower powers. Battery degradation further intensified when fast charging accounted for over 12% of total charging sessions. Charging at powers exceeding 100 kilowatts induces electrochemical erosion in batteries, accelerating lithium plating and reducing usable capacity. This effect is observed in both lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and ternary lithium batteries, though LFP batteries demonstrate greater durability. Climate factors also influence battery degradation, with fast charging posing risks in both high and low-temperature environments. For most electric vehicle batteries, the rate of degradation plateaus after initial decline. While battery management systems play a role, driving habits and vehicle model categories also affect battery degradation curves. The analysis does not recommend abandoning fast charging but reminds users that while convenient, it comes with trade-offs—moderating fast charging habits can extend battery lifespan.