Biplab Das 
Volvo Cars has made a strategic investment in UK-based startup Breathe Battery Technologies, aiming to reduce charging time for its next generation of electric vehicles (EVs) by 30%. This move underscores Volvo’s commitment to enhancing the EV ownership experience and addressing consumer concerns over charging convenience.
Partnership details
The investment, facilitated through the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, the Swedish automaker’s corporate venture capital arm, marks a significant step towards advancing EV technology. Although the exact investment amount remains undisclosed, Volvo’s partnership with Breathe Battery Technologies signals a shared vision for innovation in the EV sector.
Addressing customer concerns
Volvo Cars Tech Fund CEO Ann-Sofie Ekberg highlighted the investment’s primary objective of addressing a critical pain point for customers: reducing charging time. By leveraging Breathe’s cutting-edge battery software, Volvo aims to enhance the charging experience for EV owners, making it more convenient and efficient.
Overcoming technical challenges
One of the major challenges facing automakers in the EV space is optimising charging speed without compromising battery safety and longevity. While rapid chargers can deliver power faster, existing software often limits power intake to protect the battery. Breathe’s algorithm-based charging software promises to overcome this hurdle by providing greater visibility into battery health and enabling faster charging while maintaining safety protocols.
Future prospects
According to Breathe CEO Ian Campbell, the collaboration with Volvo represents just the beginning of a broader shift towards software-defined batteries. By unlocking the potential for faster charging and improved battery performance, the partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of EVs and make them more attractive to consumers.
Importance of faster charging
Faster charging times play a crucial role in incentivising consumers to transition to electric vehicles. As the automotive industry transitions towards electrification, addressing concerns related to charging infrastructure and speed is paramount in driving widespread EV adoption.
Extending battery life
In addition to reducing charging times, Breathe Battery Technologies is also focused on enhancing battery durability and performance. Their software solutions, already deployed in Oppo smartphones, aim to extend battery life and optimise performance, aligning with the long-term goals of automakers to deliver reliable and efficient EVs.
Collaborative efforts
While Volvo’s investment in Breathe Battery Technologies marks a significant milestone, the startup is also collaborating with other leading automotive brands to revolutionise EV technology. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Breathe is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of electric mobility.
Volvo Cars’ investment in Breathe Battery Technologies underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the EV market. By leveraging advanced battery software solutions, Volvo aims to enhance the charging experience for EV owners and drive the transition towards a greener future.
