According to Dr. Ferguson, the production process for the lithium-ion battery pack in each Cruise electric vehicle creates the equivalent annual CO2 absorption of 200 to 300 trees. As such, extending the life of these batteries is crucial to maximizing the environmental benefits of a fleet of EVs, not to mention reducing the cost of producing new units.
As such, Cruise will optimize charge levels based on demand. As Dr. Ferguson points out, repeatedly charging a battery to its maximum level can quickly deteriorate a battery, which means each EV will not be charged more than is necessary.
What’s more, Cruise will tailor charge rates to the optimize battery condition. While DC fast chargers may quickly pour energy into a battery pack, they can also cause strain and reduce the battery’s long-term health, which means slower charging systems will be used when quick-charging isn’t needed.
More>>