Kia Europe conducts the first public test of battery passport technology at the individual cell level, paving the way for more accurate and transparent assessment of the condition of traction batteries in electric vehicles. The aim is to verify how detailed monitoring of the battery throughout its life cycle can contribute to improving maintenance, repairability and extending battery life.
The test is being carried out on a Kia EV3 equipped with Dukosi‘s system, which continuously monitors and records the technical parameters of each battery module cell. The data is then stored in a digital battery passport, accessible to users, service centres and regulators via the vehicle’s infotainment system. This data enables more accurate diagnostics, reduces repair costs and increases the efficiency of battery recycling processes.
The project is part of the European research initiative DATAPIPE, aimed at verifying the technical, legislative and operational aspects of the introduction of a European Battery Passport. The testing involves the Technical University of Delft, Hyundai Motor Group, Hyundai Mobis, TNO and ARN, an organisation dedicated to the end-of-life treatment of batteries.
Under European legislation, a digital battery passport is to become mandatory for all electric and hybrid vehicles sold in the EU from February 2027. Kia is also developing its own service with enhanced safety data and more detailed monitoring of battery parameters, which could go beyond regulatory requirements.
The battery passport testing at the cell level represents a significant step towards standardising battery data collection and management, which has the potential to improve operational efficiency, safety and sustainability across the EV value chain.