Volvo has entered into a partnership with a UK-based company to enhance the charging efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to reduce charging times by up to 30 percent. Recognizing that fast charging capability is crucial for widespread consumer acceptance of EVs, Volvo Cars is leveraging innovative technology to address this key concern.
The initiative seeks to optimize the charging process through the use of an algorithm designed to manage the car’s batteries more effectively. To realize this objective, Volvo has joined forces with Breathe Battery Technologies, a UK company specializing in battery management solutions.
Fast charging of lithium-ion batteries, common in contemporary EVs, presents challenges related to overheating and battery degradation. To address these issues, Volvo and Breathe Battery Technologies are implementing an algorithm-enabled charging system that dynamically adjusts charging parameters based on individual cell conditions such as state of charge, temperature, and health.
Breathe Battery Technologies, a spinoff from Imperial College London established in 2019, has developed real-time battery management software designed to optimize charging rates while maintaining battery longevity. By integrating this software with Volvo’s in-house developed Battery Monitoring System (BMS), the partnership aims to enhance the charging capability of Volvo’s EVs without compromising safety or battery lifespan.
According to Volvo, the embedded software developed by Breathe Battery Technologies has demonstrated significant improvements in charging times, with a potential reduction of 15 to 30 percent from 10 percent to 80 percent charged state, depending on pack configurations. Importantly, these enhancements have been observed consistently over the entire lifespan of the battery pack, indicating sustained performance without compromising battery health.
Volvo Cars, committed to transitioning to a fully electric fleet by 2030, views optimizing fast charging as a crucial step towards achieving this goal. While Volvo is the first automaker to adopt Breathe’s charging software, the partnership is not exclusive, suggesting potential applications across a broader spectrum of EVs. Furthermore, the technology holds promise for optimizing battery charging in smaller electronic devices beyond the automotive sector.
As Volvo continues its electrification journey, initiatives like this underscore the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, driving advancements in EV technology and fostering greater adoption of electric mobility solutions.