Engineering news
The Swedish multinational announced a partnership with London firm Breathe Battery Technologies today (12 March). The carmaker will use Breathe’s patented algorithm-enabled charging on its new generation of EVs.
“By integrating Breathe’s software in Volvo Cars' in-house-developed battery management platform to optimise and improve the performance of our charging technology, we can provide Volvo customers with even faster charging times and an enhanced overall driving and charging experience,” the car company said.
Unlike conventional stepped charging, which relies on pre-determined rules, Breathe’s software uses adaptive charging to dynamically control the battery in real time. The software manages the charging process in line with the battery’s health to deliver the best driver experience, while also avoiding the risk of lithium plating, which can harm the battery’s performance and lifespan.
The technology will reduce the time it takes to charge an EV battery from 10% to 80% by 15-30%, Volvo said, while maintaining the same energy density and range. Charging improvements will last for the battery’s whole lifecycle without affecting its health, the company also claimed.
Volvo aims to become a fully electric carmaker by 2030.
“The investment and commercial partnership with Breathe helps us address a familiar pain point for electric car customers and makes our charging performance even more competitive,” said Ann-Sofie Ekberg, CEO of the Volvo Cars Tech Fund.
“Faster charging times, in the range where customers typically fast charge, represent a major step in the right direction as we continue to boost electric mobility and make it available to more people.”
Dr Ian Campbell, CEO of Breathe Battery Technologies, said: “We’re very pleased with this investment and sourcing agreement with Volvo Cars, and support their exciting journey towards full electrification.
“Deploying our technology at scale on Volvo’s next-generation EV platform opens doors to innovative car designs and performance improvements. We share a profound passion for electric mobility, and convenient, fast charging is one of the cornerstone enablers for the future we strive towards.”
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