What can affect the performance of an EV's traction battery?

The performance of an electric vehicle's traction battery is influenced by several factors, and selecting "all of the above" recognizes that each mentioned aspect plays a role in battery performance.

Battery age is significant because as batteries age, their capacity and ability to hold a charge typically decrease due to chemical degradation and loss of active material. This aging process affects the overall energy output and efficiency of the battery.

Temperature also has a crucial impact; extreme temperatures can adversely affect battery chemistry. High temperatures can lead to overheating and may cause thermal runaway, while low temperatures can result in increased internal resistance, reducing the battery’s ability to deliver power. Additionally, the number of charging cycles a battery undergoes—how often it is charged and discharged—will also impact its lifespan and performance. More charging cycles can accelerate wear, decreasing the battery's overall effectiveness compared to when it is new.

Charging connections play a part as well, although their effect is more mechanical. Poor or loose connections can result in inefficient charging, increased resistance, and even heat generation, which are undesirable for optimal battery performance.

By recognizing that all of these factors — battery age, temperature, charging cycles, and charging connections — can collectively influence the performance of an EV's traction battery, it becomes clear why