New Rapid EV Chargers Now Live in Rhondda Cynon Taf Town Centres

While rapid DC charging offers convenience, it can, in some cases, negatively impact electric vehicle battery life compared to slower charging methods. Frequent use of rapid chargers, especially in extreme temperatures or when the battery is already near full, can lead to increased battery degradation.

Why might rapid charging slightly accelerate battery degradation

Heat Generation: Rapid charging delivers higher currents to the battery, which can generate more heat. Excessive heat is a known factor in battery degradation.
Increased Strain: The high voltage and current involved in rapid charging can put more stress on the battery cells, potentially leading to faster wear and tear over time.
Frequency of Use: Regularly using rapid chargers can accumulate the effects of heat and strain, potentially leading to a slight reduction in overall battery lifespan compared to consistent slower charging.

Best practices for preserving battery health with rapid charging

Limit Frequent Use: Reserve rapid charging for long journeys or when you need a quick top-up, prioritizing slower charging for daily use at home or work.
Avoid Extreme Charge Levels: Try to avoid rapid charging when the battery is nearly empty (below 20%) or nearly full (above 80%), as these states can increase battery stress.
Battery Preconditioning: If your EV offers this feature, preconditioning the battery in extreme temperatures (hot or cold) before charging can improve efficiency and reduce battery stress.

In conclusion, while rapid charging might slightly accelerate battery degradation, the impact is generally minimal due to advancements in EV battery technology and management systems. By adopting smart charging habits and following manufacturer guidelines, EV owners can enjoy the convenience of rapid charging without significantly compromising battery longevity.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is making it easier than ever to go electric. As part of its goal to become a Carbon Neutral Local Authority by 2030, the Council has recently installed new rapid Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers in three of its town centre car parks, as part of the latest round of investment in this area.

The Council has supported the installation of 76 EV chargers at 65 community locations since the first installations were completed in May 2022 – working closely with the Cardiff Capital Region, the UK Government, and the Welsh Government.

Find out more about the Council’s investment in EV charging across Rhondda Cynon Taf here.

Now, on top of this, you’ll now find 50kW DC rapid chargers ready to use at Aberdare Library Car Park, Tonypandy Lower Car Park, and Pontypridd’s Goods Yard Car Park. That means drivers can plug in and get a substantial charge in around an hour—perfect while grabbing a bite, shopping, or catching up in town.

The Council is well on its way to making sure 90% of residents are within a mile of a charger by the end of the decade.

Councillor Maureen Webber BEM, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member with responsibility for Climate Change said, said:

“We’ve come a long way with support from the Welsh Government and our partners. These new rapid chargers are another big step towards making every day EV use more practical and convenient for everyone in our communities.

“Electric vehicle drivers can now visit Aberdare, Pontypridd and Tonypandy town centres for shopping or having a meal, while their electric cars or vans are receiving a rapid recharge over the period of their stay.”

The Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure across Rhondda Cynon Taf is still expanding with new chargepoints being installed throughout the year. To find your nearest chargepoint and stay updated, visit the Council’s Electric Vehicle Charging page. You can also check out Zap-Map for live availability across the network.