While most modern EVs handle DC fast charging reasonably well, some models and conditions show higher susceptibility to battery degradation:
- Nissan Leaf (air-cooled batteries): Studies explicitly mentioned for this model show a measurable impact. Idaho National Laboratory found Leafs using DC fast charging exclusively had 27% capacity loss after 50,000 miles vs. 24.5% for Level 2 charging. Another test comparing DC vs. AC fast charging showed a 16% faster degradation rate for rapid-charged Leafs.
- EVs in hot climates: Geotab’s analysis of 10,000 EVs found DC fast charging significantly accelerates degradation in hot climates, especially when used frequently. While not model-specific, this likely affects older or passively cooled batteries more (e.g., early Leafs, some base trims).
- Early-generation EVs: Models with less sophisticated thermal management systems (common before ~2020) are generally more vulnerable to heat buildup during rapid charging.
Mitigation factors: Newer models (e.g., Tesla, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E) with active liquid cooling and charge-rate optimization algorithms show reduced susceptibility. For most modern EVs, occasional DC fast charging has minimal impact (~0.1% added degradation per session on average).
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-specific-ev-models-more-susceptible-to-battery-degradation-from-dc-fast-charging/
