Chinese automaker BYD has introduced an advanced charging system that significantly reduces the time needed to recharge electric vehicles, bringing it closer to the refuelling experience of traditional petrol cars.
The new battery and charging platform, tested on the upcoming Han L sedan, demonstrated the ability to deliver 400km of range in just five minutes, according to BYD chairman and founder Wang Chuanfu. The first models featuring this technology will go on sale in April.
This development could be a game-changer for electric vehicle adoption, addressing one of the key concerns among potential buyers—long charging times. By offering charging speeds comparable to the time it takes to refuel a conventional vehicle, BYD aims to attract drivers hesitant to switch to electric mobility due to lengthy charging stops.
The new platform is set to underpin many of BYD’s future EV models and is expected to further strengthen the company’s position in the global electric vehicle market. BYD has rapidly emerged as a formidable competitor to Tesla, challenging the U.S. automaker for the title of the world’s top EV seller. Meanwhile, Tesla’s China shipments dropped by 49% in February compared to the previous year, reaching just 30,688 vehicles—the lowest monthly figure since July 2022.
