Electric vehicles are becoming more common on roads across the UK, and many people are choosing them because they produce fewer emissions and have lower running costs. As more drivers buy and sell used electric vehicles, one question has become increasingly important: How healthy is the battery?
A new partnership between Generational and Maverick Diagnostics aims to make it much easier for drivers to find the answer through regular battery health checks. Routine battery health checks will also allow the industry to compare different types of batteries, such as the solid-state batteries being developed by companies like QuantumScape Corp. (NYSE: QS) with lithium-ion batteries and other novel battery types being introduced on the market.
This development is significant because battery health is a key factor in the resale value and performance of used EVs. Without standardized checks, buyers and sellers have relied on limited data, which can lead to uncertainty and reduced confidence in the second-hand market. By making battery health checks routine, the partnership could help standardize information and boost consumer trust.
The partnership also highlights the growing need for diagnostic tools as EV adoption increases. According to industry data, the number of EVs on UK roads has surged in recent years, and with it, the demand for services that can assess battery condition. This move could pave the way for similar initiatives globally.
Moreover, the ability to compare different battery technologies will be crucial as automakers and suppliers race to improve energy density, charging speed, and longevity. Solid-state batteries, for instance, promise higher energy density and safety but are still in development. Routine health checks will provide real-world data to evaluate their performance against existing lithium-ion packs.
The partnership between Generational and Maverick Diagnostics is a step toward integrating battery health assessments into standard vehicle inspections, much like oil changes for internal combustion engines. This could become a routine part of EV ownership, similar to annual check-ups for conventional cars.
As the used EV market expands, the importance of transparent battery health information will only grow. This initiative could help set a standard that benefits consumers, dealers, and manufacturers alike, ultimately accelerating the transition to electric mobility.
