Improvement in high-rate dischargeability, activation, and low-temperature performance in multi-phase AB2 alloys by partial substitution of Zr with Y

► Incorporation of Y in two AB2 alloys and their electrochemical properties were studied. ► Both the high-rate dischargeability and activation are much improved. ► Large decrease in the surface charge transfer resistance was found at −40 °C. ► Both the C15 phase and Y-containing secondary phases are sources of the improvement.