BYD five-minute charge leaves competitors scrambling

March 19, 2025 - Chinese carmaker BYD claims to have developed an electric vehicle platform that enables drivers to charge their EVs in the time it takes to refuel a petrol-powered car, leaving other manufacturers in their dust.

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According to BYD, their latest cars can charge at up to 2 kilometres of range per second, or 400km in just five minutes. Despite the typical range of EVs now far exceeding the average driving distance, “charging anxiety” is still a concern among potential buyers.

The Super e-Platform uses the revolutionary BYD lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) Blade battery, which combines lower internal resistance for faster charging with greater thernal and chemical stability for safety and a longer life. The latest version of the Blade is capable of 10 charging cycles per hour.

The platform also comprises a next-generation, automotive-grade
silicon carbide power chip with a voltage rating of up to 1500V, the highest in the motor industry, and a 30,000 rpm motor, higher speed but lower size and weight for greater power density.

BYD is beginning the installation of a network of 1,000kW hyperchargers across China, although drivers in other territories may have to wait a while to see them.