Human Behavior Meets EV Charging: How Smartphone Data Helps Prolong Battery Lifetime

What is it about?

Electric vehicle (EV batteries degrade over time, which reduces their performance and lifespan. To address this, we developed a smarter way to charge EV batteries, called the Delayed Full Charging (DFC) algorithm. Instead of fully charging the battery right away, the DFC algorithm charges it to about 80% and delays full charging until just before the driver is likely to unplug the car. This reduces the time the battery stays fully charged, which helps prevent damage and extend its lifespan. But how do we predict when the car will be unplugged? That’s where smartphones come in. By analyzing everyday data from smartphones—like routines, behaviors, and environmental factors—we can predict when the driver will likely leave. This approach captures irregular but predictable patterns in human behavior and uses them to make charging smarter. We tested this idea with real people and found that our method was accurate at predicting departure times, especially on weekdays. This innovative solution not only helps drivers get the most out of their EV batteries but also demonstrates how data from daily life can improve technology in meaningful ways.

Featured Image

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Battery degradation is a growing challenge in the rapidly expanding EV market, affecting both users and the environment. For EV users, it means reduced driving range, higher maintenance costs, and more frequent charging. On a societal level, the environmental burden is significant, with over 5 million metric tons of degraded lithium-ion batteries projected to require disposal by 2030. These challenges highlight the urgent need for solutions that extend battery lifespan while maintaining user convenience. Social Impact: This work directly benefits EV users by introducing the DFC algorithm, which helps prolong battery lifespan. By reducing costs and ensuring that vehicles are ready for use when needed, the DFC algorithm addresses key barriers to EV adoption, enhancing user satisfaction and confidence. Moreover, as regulations like the EU’s battery lifespan standards come into force, the algorithm provides manufacturers with a practical way to meet compliance requirements while supporting user needs. Environmental Relevance: Prolonging battery life reduces the frequency of replacements and minimizes waste, contributing to global efforts for sustainability. By addressing battery degradation, this approach aligns with the broader goals of carbon-neutral transportation and resource efficiency, reducing the ecological footprint of EVs. What’s Unique: The DFC algorithm goes beyond existing delayed charging methods by integrating human behavior and environmental contexts through smartphone-derived data. Using digital phenotyping, it predicts departure times based on personalized daily routines, enabling precise, automated charging. This minimizes the time batteries spend at 100% charge, a key factor in battery aging, and provides a seamless, data-driven solution that adapts to real-world scenarios like overnight charging. By tackling battery degradation through innovative, user-centric technology, this work not only promotes sustainable EV adoption but also supports environmental and societal goals, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Perspectives