Generational has launched cell-level voltage testing to provide deeper diagnostic insights into electric vehicle battery packs. This new capability allows retailers to identify voltage imbalances between individual cells that may not be reflected in standard State of Health (SoH) readings.
Highlights
- Detection of voltage variance across individual lithium-ion cells within a single battery pack.
- Identification of early degradation signs to prevent range loss and charging constraints.
- Enhanced valuation accuracy for used electric vehicles via granular performance data.
Technical Impact of Cell Imbalance
In a modern EV battery pack, hundreds of lithium-ion cells operate as a single system. Generational stated that these cells must remain closely balanced in voltage for the battery to perform optimally. Specifically, temperature variations and charging patterns can cause individual cells to diverge over time.
A single weak cell can limit the performance of the entire pack. This occurs because the battery management system (BMS) must protect the weakest cell by cutting off discharge or charging cycles prematurely. Consequently, this constraint reduces the available range and drivability of the vehicle.
Furthermore, persistent imbalance can lead to the need for module replacement. This repair can cost thousands of dollars (approx. $1,260 USD per £1,000). Identifying these issues early allows retailers to mitigate risk when acquiring or valuing used EV stock.
Industry Context and Market Data
The transparency of battery health is becoming a critical factor in stabilizing used EV residual values. As the market matures, buyers and investors increasingly require more than a simple percentage score to verify long-term asset viability.
According to the 2025 Battery Performance Index, which analyzed more than 8,000 UK-based EVs, the average battery SoH stands at 95.15%. Additionally, the study found that vehicles aged 8 to 9 years retained a median capacity of 85%.
However, the data highlights that variance between individual vehicles increases significantly as they age. Two batteries with identical SoH metrics may behave differently if one suffers from significant cell-level voltage imbalance.
Improving Used EV Remarketing
The new tool allows non-technical staff to run tests and receive actionable results on the forecourt. This transparency addresses consumer concerns regarding battery reliability and supports higher asking prices. Specifically, it allows dealers to demonstrate the condition of the vehicle’s most valuable component.
“When one cell begins to drop out of line, it can limit the performance of the entire battery,” said Oliver Phillpott, CEO of Generational. He added that the tool enables anyone to run a test that provides understandable results, leading to more confident pricing and reduced risk.
As EV volumes expand in the secondary market, advanced diagnostics are expected to become a standard part of vehicle appraisal. This launch follows the company’s mission to support a transparent used EV ecosystem for automotive retailers.
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