Partnership Aims to Make EV Battery Health Checks Routine for Used Car Buyers

A new partnership between Generational and Maverick Diagnostics aims to make electric vehicle battery health checks a routine part of vehicle maintenance, addressing a growing concern among used EV buyers. As electric vehicles become more common on UK roads, drivers increasingly want to know the condition of the battery before purchasing a pre-owned EV. This partnership seeks to provide a standardized way to assess battery health, which could become as common as checking the oil in a conventional car.

The initiative comes at a time when the used EV market is expanding rapidly. With lower running costs and reduced emissions, many drivers are turning to electric vehicles. However, the battery—the most expensive component—remains a source of uncertainty for used car buyers. Routine health checks could help reassure consumers and facilitate a more transparent market. According to the partnership, these checks will also allow the industry to compare different battery types, such as the solid-state batteries being developed by companies like QuantumScape Corp. (NYSE: QS) with traditional lithium-ion batteries and other novel chemistries. This comparison could help accelerate the adoption of new technologies by providing objective data on performance and longevity.

The partnership leverages Generational’s expertise in battery analytics and Maverick Diagnostics’ experience in vehicle diagnostics. Together, they plan to develop tools that can quickly and accurately assess battery state of health (SOH), providing a clear picture of remaining capacity and expected lifespan. This information is critical not only for buyers and sellers but also for fleet operators and insurers who need to manage the total cost of ownership of electric vehicles.

The move aligns with broader industry trends toward greater transparency in EV battery health. Several automakers have begun offering battery warranties and health reports, but a standardized approach has been lacking. If successful, this partnership could set a benchmark for the industry, making battery health checks a routine part of EV ownership, much like annual inspections for traditional cars.

The announcement has implications for the entire EV ecosystem. For consumers, it means greater confidence in the used EV market, potentially boosting resale values. For manufacturers, it provides a tool to demonstrate the durability of their batteries. And for companies developing next-generation batteries, it offers a way to validate their technology against existing solutions. The partnership plans to roll out its services initially in the UK, with plans to expand to other markets.