90% Charge, Longer Life: Why Tesla’s New Battery Is a Milestone for EVs

Tesla owners have long lived with a simple rule: if your car uses a nickel-based battery (NMC), don’t charge beyond 80% each day. That limit protected the battery but left many drivers wishing for just a little more usable range.

Now Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has hinted at a major shift in battery guidance during an appearance on Jay Leno’s Garage. He revealed that Tesla’s next generation of nickel-based batteries is durable enough for owners to charge to 90% daily, reversing years of advice to keep charging capped at 80%.

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The Old Divide: LFP vs Nickel

Tesla currently delivers two main battery chemistries, each with strengths and compromises.

The trade-off has been clear: convenience versus performance. LFP batteries gave peace of mind for commuters, while nickel chemistries delivered range and speed but required careful charging habits.

Tesla’s latest development narrows that gap, giving high-performance models a taste of the same convenience LFP drivers already enjoy.

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How Tesla Pulled It Off

A recently published patent (US20240383770A1) outlines the science. The company has improved its nickel-based cells using a technique called cathode doping.

In plain terms, doping means adding trace amounts of other elements into the cathode structure. This strengthens the material and reduces the gradual energy loss that occurs with repeated charging cycles.

The results, according to Tesla’s filings, are striking:

• Older nickel cathodes retained about 83% capacity after heavy use.
• Doped cathodes hold closer to 91% capacity.
• Degradation falls from ~20% to under 5% over time.

This fourfold improvement explains why Tesla feels confident lifting the daily charging guidance.

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Check out the full episode of Jay Leno’s garage below:

What This Means for Drivers

For Australian Tesla owners, the change could deliver:

• More usable daily range from Long Range and Performance vehicles.
• Simpler charging routines, closer to what LFP drivers already enjoy.
• Better long-term battery health, extending both lifespan and resale value.