BYD claims it’s made a major EV charging breakthrough

BYD, a Chinese EV (electric vehicle) manufacturer, has introduced a groundbreaking battery and charging system that can recharge an EV nearly as quickly as filling up a traditional gas-powered car.

The Super E Platform offers charging speeds of up to 1 megawatt (1000kW), providing 2km of range every second at peak rates. A five-minute charge can add up to 400km (approximately 250 miles) of range.

Aside from impressive charging speeds, BYD’s new platform features a 580kW motor capable of propelling an EV to over 300km/h (186 mph).

Wang Chuanfu, chairman and president of BYD Group, stated, “our goal is to make the charging time of electric vehicles as short as the refueling time of fuel vehicles,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to alleviating consumer range anxiety.

Currently, Tesla’s Superchargers can replenish 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes. If BYD’s claims hold true, this could be a significant milestone for the EV industry, potentially further boosting EV sales.

However, having a platform and battery capable of megawatt charging is just one piece of the puzzle. Drivers also need a charging station network capable of delivering such high power rates, which is currently lacking in most parts of the world.

BYD plans to establish over 4,000 “megawatt flash charging stations” in China in the future, though a specific timeline has not been provided. It remains to be seen if other manufacturers will adopt this technology globally.

The first Super E cars have been unveiled

BYD has not only announced its innovative EV technology but also unveiled its first two electric cars built on the Super E Platform – the Han L and Tang L.

Currently available in China with pre-sales underway, the Han L sedan is priced starting at 270,000 yuan (approximately $37,300), while the Tang L SUV starts at 280,000 yuan (roughly $38,700).

Both vehicles are set to be officially launched in April, with their release on Chinese roads yet to be confirmed.