BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker, has introduced an innovative battery and charging system that claims to charge an EV almost as quickly as refueling a traditional gasoline car.
The platform, known as the Super E Platform, boasts charging speeds of up to 1 megawatt (1000 kW), which translates to approximately 2 kilometers of range added each second during peak performance. A mere five-minute charge can revitalize up to 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) of driving range.
In addition to its remarkable charging capabilities, BYD’s new platform features a 580 kW motor that can propel an electric vehicle to speeds exceeding 300 km/h (186 mph).
Wang Chuanfu, the chairman and president of BYD Group, stated, “Our objective is to equalize the charging time of electric vehicles with the refueling time of conventional fuel vehicles,” highlighting the company’s efforts to alleviate consumer concerns about EV range.
Currently, Tesla’s Superchargers can add about 200 miles of range in roughly 15 minutes. Should BYD’s claims be accurate, it could represent a significant advancement for the electric vehicle industry and potentially boost EV sales further.
However, having a platform and battery capable of megawatt charging is only part of the solution. There also needs to be an extensive network of charging stations that can deliver such high power. Unfortunately, many regions around the world lack the necessary megawatt charging infrastructure.
BYD intends to establish over 4,000 “megawatt flash charging stations” throughout China, although a specific timeline for their completion has not been announced. As for the global scale, it remains to be seen if other manufacturers will adopt this revolutionary technology.
The First Super E Cars Have Been Unveiled
This announcement goes beyond just futuristic technology, as BYD has also revealed two new electric models built on the Super E Platform—the Han L and Tang L.
At present, these vehicles are available exclusively in China, with pre-orders already underway. The pricing starts at 270,000 yuan (approximately $37,300) for the Han L sedan, while the Tang L SUV starts at 280,000 yuan (around $38,700).
BYD confirms that both vehicles are set for an official launch in April, although the exact date for their arrival on Chinese roads remains unconfirmed.
