Concerns that frequent fast charging significantly degrades electric vehicle batteries have been largely dispelled by new Australian data, with analysis showing only a marginal impact on long-term battery health.
Findings from Pickles’ latest Quarterly Automotive Report reveals that heavy reliance on DC fast charging results in less than a two per cent difference in battery State of Health compared with vehicles charged predominantly via AC charging.
The analysis examined battery performance across more than 800 electric vehicles as part of Pickles’ broader EV testing program, which now spans more than 1,500 vehicles nationally. Across that wider dataset, average battery health remains above 96 per cent, reinforcing confidence in the durability of modern EV batteries.
According to Pickles, the study compared vehicles with minimal DC fast charging against those where between 90 and 100 per cent of charging was conducted via fast chargers. Even among vehicles aged two to four years with moderate to high kilometres, the gap in battery health remained consistently below two per cent.
Pickles general manager – automotive solutions, Brendon Green, said the results challenge one of the most persistent concerns among prospective EV buyers, particularly those without access to home charging.
“What the data clearly shows is that modern EV batteries are far more resilient than many people assume – even when DC charging forms a significant part of daily use,” Green said.
The findings come as Australia’s public charging network continues to expand, increasing the importance of fast charging for apartment dwellers and metropolitan drivers. Pickles said the results should provide reassurance to buyers considering both new and used electric vehicles.
Green said the data removes a major psychological barrier to EV adoption, particularly within the used vehicle market.
“Drivers who rely on public charging infrastructure can participate in the used EV market with far greater confidence,” he said.
The report also suggests Australia’s relatively moderate climate may be contributing to stronger battery outcomes locally. Most capital cities avoid the extreme heat or cold conditions known to accelerate battery degradation in some overseas markets, supporting more stable long-term battery health.
Issue 8 of the Pickles Quarterly Automotive Report (ital.) draws on national sales data and proprietary EV battery testing to provide market intelligence for buyers, sellers, fleet operators and industry stakeholders. The report also examines used vehicle pricing trends, heavy transport electrification, salvage activity growth and evolving recovery outcomes across the automotive sector.