Volvo desires to hurry EV charging occasions by counting on software program fairly than upgrades to batteries and different {hardware}.
The automaker on Monday introduced a partnership with U.Ok.-based Breathe Battery Applied sciences to entry that firm’s “algorithm-enabled charging software program” with its battery administration methods—with the objective of optimizing charging efficiency.
Testing has indicated that this software program may cut back the time to cost an EV battery pack from 10% to 80% by 15% to 30%, relying on the pack, whereas sustaining pack vitality density and vary, Volvo mentioned in a press launch.
Volvo EV battery modules
Software program developed by Breathe, which is receiving funding from the Volvo Vehicles Tech Fund, can extra carefully handle charging in comparison with present stepped charging protocols, in accordance with Volvo. Whereas stepped charging depends on preset guidelines, Breathe’s algorithms can handle charging primarily based on real-time evaluation of battery well being, permitting for extra flexibility and probably faster charging, Volvo claims.
This is not the one type of charging innovation that is extra research-and-algorithm primarily based than hardware-based. College of California Riverside researchers a number of years in the past recommended that by carefully following the interior resistance of battery cells, they might make packs final far longer.
Upgrading battery packs and switching battery cells prices cash, and upgrading battery cooling prices effectivity. That is left automakers pondering some progressive workarounds, at the very least in patent type. Rivian, as an illustration, thought of blowing cool air below its vans.
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2025 Volvo EX90
In the meantime, Toyota, Nissan, and a variety of cell makers are engaged on solid-state battery tech that will additionally enable such super-fast charging. And Volvo’s cousin Polestar is testing solid-state tech that would enable 100 miles restored in 5 minutes. However Lotus is amongst only a few corporations boasting DC quick charging above 400 kw with present liquid electrolyte battery codecs.
Volvo can also be launching an vitality enterprise, and the upcoming EX90 is its first EV that can have all the required {hardware} for bidirectional charging.