A method of preparing a lithium-ion cell (10), the method including providing to an electrolyte (22) of the cell, an additive configured to improve formation of a solid electrolyte interface (24) on an anode (12), charging the cell (10) at a first predetermined charge rate (C1) up to a first predetermined voltage (V1), wherein the first predetermined voltage (V1) corresponds to a voltage at which the additive begins formation of the solid electrolyte interface (24), charging the cell (10) at a second predetermined rate (C2) to a second predetermined voltage (V2), wherein the second predetermined voltage (V2) corresponds to a voltage at which the electrolyte (22) begins formation of the solid electrolyte interface (24); and charging the cell (10) to a fully charged capacity at a third predetermined charge rate (C3), the third charge rate (C3) being greater than the second charge rate (C2).