Battery technology is evolving fast, but not just through new materials or chemistry. A startup called Breathe Battery Technologies has found a way to speed up charging by 30%—without harming battery health. The secret? Smarter algorithms.
This software is already making waves. Volvo’s upcoming ES90 will feature Breathe’s technology, and it’s even improving smartphone charging. Best of all, it can be deployed over-the-air (OTA), meaning existing EVs could get a boost without hardware upgrades.
The Problem: Charging Speed vs. Battery Health
Charging an EV battery is a delicate balance. Too slow, and it wastes time. Too fast, and it generates heat, degrading the battery.
Most EVs today rely on static lookup tables to manage charging speed. These tables, built by battery manufacturers, set charge limits based on temperature and charge level. However, they lack precision, meaning many EVs charge slower than necessary just to avoid damage.
Breathe’s AI-powered software replaces these outdated tables with real-time adjustments, delivering faster charging without added stress.
How Breathe’s Algorithm Works
Breathe Charge uses real-time data—voltage, temperature, and charge state—to adjust power delivery with pinpoint accuracy. Instead of using rigid lookup tables, it creates smooth, adaptive charging curves that maximize speed while protecting battery life.
The results?
- 30% faster charging from 10-80% under normal conditions.
- 48% faster charging in cold temperatures (0°C).
- Longer battery lifespan thanks to better energy management.
Built for the Future, Ready for Today
Breathe’s software is lightweight, requiring less than 10KB of memory. It can run on existing vehicle chips and even be delivered via OTA updates, making it possible for manufacturers to upgrade EVs without replacing hardware.
While Volvo’s ES90 will be the first car to feature Breathe Charge, other automakers may follow. The company is expanding, and with sales positions opening in Detroit, U.S. automakers are clearly on its radar.
The Road Ahead
Breathe’s tech is already in use on smartphones like the Oppo 8, optimizing battery longevity. With fast-charging improvements for EVs on the horizon, it may soon be a game-changer for the entire industry.
