The first charge of an EV battery is more than just symbolic. It can help determine Overall battery lifeAccording to a new study funded by the Toyota Research Institute and published in the scientific journal Joule.
First discovered by InsideEVResearch from Stanford University’s SLAC-Stanford Battery Center found that charging a lithium-ion battery for the first time at an unusually high current—enough to reduce charging time from 10 hours to 20 minutes—increased Average life expectancy increased by 50% and in some cases as much as 70 percent, Stanford said in a press release.
Formation of the SEI layer of a lithium-ion battery (via SLAC-Stanford Battery Center)
When newly manufactured, but before being charged to store energy or discharged so the stored energy can power a vehicle, the positive electrode of the battery contains given amount of lithium is lost as the battery is used, reducing its lifespan. But researchers found that losing more lithium during the initial charge may actually be beneficial in the long run.
That’s because the first lithium forms part of a “soft layer” called the solid electrolyte interlayer (SEI) that forms on the surface of the negative electrode and helps protect it from reactions that can accelerate battery degradation.
Lexus RZ 2024
Manufacturers often charge batteries with a low initial current in the belief that this creates a stronger SEI layer, but researchers found that higher current is actually better—and also charges faster the first time. According to the researchers, higher current is one of two key factors that produce the best results, along with battery temperature.
Many electric cars are on the road, especially Teslasseems against battery degradation pretty good. But an additional measure to increase battery life could provide peace of mind for consumers and could become especially relevant if California moves forward. Recommended battery degradation limits.
