Examining Model-Based Fast-Charging and Preconditioning on a Vehicle Level

Abstract

To establish battery electric vehicles as an attractive alternative to internal combustion vehicles, charging times of 15 min or less are increasingly demanded. This is especially challenging for lower battery temperatures, as this exacerbates the risk of accelerated battery degradation due to lithium plating. Therefore, active battery heating is utilized in state-of-the-art electric vehicles. To evaluate the impact of such heating strategies at vehicle level, we deployed an electrochemical battery model coupled with a longitudinal vehicle dynamics model. Using anode potential control to prevent lithium plating, we assess the time-saving potential versus the energy cost of different preconditioning and fast-charging strategies. The results reveal substantial energy saving and charge speed increase potential through optimal charge-stop planning, preconditioning timing, cost-adjusted thermal management thresholds, and considering driving behavior. This emphasizes the need for advanced operation strategies, taking into account both battery-level electrical and thermal restrictions, as well as vehicle integration and route planning.