Advancements in rapid charging graphene batteries for electric vehicles: a review

Abstract

Extreme fast charging (XFC) of graphene-enabled lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is a promising route for electric vehicles (EVs) because graphene can accelerate electron and lithium-ion transport while improving heat spreading. This review critically examines how graphene structure, synthesis route, electrode architecture, and thermal behavior influence charge rate, capacity retention, cycle life, and safety under EV-relevant conditions. It compares graphene-based cells with conventional LIBs, lithium titanate, and silicon-based anodes, while identifying the practical constraints of low tap density, first-cycle loss, cost, reproducibility, and scale-up. The evidence supports graphene most strongly as an engineered composite, coating, or conductive framework rather than as a universal replacement for established electrode materials. Commercial progress requires balanced full-cell validation at high areal loading, lean electrolyte content, realistic temperatures, and more than 1,000 fast-charge cycles.