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There is currently much discussion about the durability and performance of electric car batteries, as they are among the most central and costly components of the vehicle. A common concern is that many charging cycles may negatively impact battery lifespan. To address these concerns, The Mobility House Energy, the leading expert in smart and grid-friendly charging, and RWTH Aachen University conducted a joint study examining the long-term effects of charging processes, particularly Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications, on electric vehicle batteries. The study compared the scenarios of immediate charging, smart charging (V1G), and bidirectional charging (Vehicle-to-Grid – V2G) using different cell types available on the market.
The results clearly show:
Immediate charging is the most harmful – smart charging (V1G) should be the standard
After ten years, the reduced aging from V1G ranged between 3.3 percentage points and 6.8 percentage points. This corresponds to a capacity gain compared to immediate charging of 1.8 to 3.6 kWh, or 10.9 to 22.5 km of WLTP range. Additionally, smart charging yields annual revenues of 200 to 400 euros based on the current energy market.
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) has only a minimal effect on overall battery aging but provides significant value
After ten years, the additional aging from V2G was between 1.7 and 5.8 percentage points. This corresponds to a capacity loss of 0.9 to 3.1 kWh or 5.8 to 19.2 km of WLTP range. The value of this capacity today is approximately 100 to 300 euros in investment, but V2G delivers over 600 euros per year. The simulated 52 kWh battery experienced an additional annual energy throughput of 4.70 MWh.
Immediate charging is the worst option.
Immediate charging leads to higher aging because the battery is frequently at 100% state of charge and causes grid stress. Moreover, the battery is not monetized in this scenario, and therefore its full value is not utilized.
Understanding battery aging is key
The shallower the charge and discharge cycles in V2G operation, the gentler it is on the battery. In addition, extreme states of charge (0% and 100%) should be avoided as much as possible. Trading strategies that consider these factors reduce battery aging and ensure the vehicle’s lifespan is not affected.
"The joint study with the experts from The Mobility House Energy has once again proven: Smart charging and Vehicle-to-Grid are game changers for e-mobility. The common concern that they harm the battery and cause premature aging can be dismissed – provided intelligent management is used. Vehicle-to-Grid technologies are the future of sustainable energy supply."
Prof. Dr. Dirk Uwe Sauer,
ISEA, RWTH Aachen University, and Helmholtz Institute Münster (HIMS)
"For our business model and our vision of zero zero – zero emissions at zero cost – the results are further confirmation. Thanks to our many years of experience with various car manufacturers in the field of battery trading, we can also generate maximum financial value for our customers. A win-win for all parties involved. That’s why it is even more important to now create the right regulatory conditions – especially in Germany – so we can fully realize the benefits for both EV drivers and a renewable energy system."
Thomas Raffeiner,
Founder and CEO of The Mobility House