Voltage-to-Grid (V2G) charging proves minimally harmful and offers yearly earnings of up to €600.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from RWTH University Aachen and EV charging specialists The Mobility House Energy have explored the impact of different electric vehicle (EV) charging methods on battery lifespan. The study, conducted in collaboration with the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) and start-up MAGNOTHERM, has shed light on the benefits of smart charging and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technologies.

The study found that immediate charging, without regard to the state of the battery or the grid, leads to higher ageing of EV batteries. On the other hand, charging strategies that consider shallow charge and discharge cycles and avoid extreme states of charge (0% and 100%) reduce battery aging and ensure the vehicle's lifespan is not affected.

Smart charging, also known as V1G, emerged as the recommended charging method due to its positive impact on battery aging and potential revenue generation. The study suggests that V1G significantly improves battery aging, with a range of reduction between 3.3% and 6.8%. This improvement translates to a capacity gain of 1.8 to 3.6 kWh or 10.9 to 22.5 km of WLTP range compared to immediate charging.

Prof. Dr. Dirk Uwe Sauer of RWTH Aachen states that smart charging and V2G are game changers for e-mobility. He further emphasizes that these technologies are the future of sustainable energy supply.

V2G technologies allow EVs to store excess energy from the grid and then release it back into the grid when demand is high. However, the study found that in terms of WLTP, V2G reduces range by 5.8 to 19.2 km. In terms of capacity, V2G charging leads to a loss of 0.9 to 3.1 kWh. Despite this loss, V2G offers potential benefits, such as providing drivers with an annual added value of €600 per year.

The generation of more than €600 per year via V2G compensates for the monetary loss associated with the loss in capacity and range. The study also found that after 10 years, the additional ageing impact of V2G charging is between 1.7% and 5.8%. This minimal impact on EV battery aging, as compared to immediate charging, makes V2G an attractive option for sustainable energy supply.

The study compared different cell types available on the market during the investigation. The findings suggest that smart charging (V1G) should be the standard method due to its positive impact on battery aging and potential revenue generation.

In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of smart charging and V2G technologies in ensuring the longevity of EV batteries and contributing to sustainable energy supply. These technologies are not just beneficial for the environment, but also for the wallets of EV owners.

Voltage-to-Grid (V2G) charging proves minimally harmful and offers yearly earnings of up to €600.