BYD’s 5-Minute EV Charge: Game Changer?

Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled a revolutionary battery system boasting ultra-fast charging capabilities, potentially transforming the electric vehicle landscape.

According to Chairman Wang Chuanfu, tests on the new Han L sedan demonstrated the ability to gain 470 kilometers (292 miles) of range in just 5 minutes. BYD plans to launch vehicles equipped with this technology next month.

Faster Than Gas?

This breakthrough could sway drivers hesitant about switching to EVs due to long charging times. Matching refueling speeds of traditional gasoline vehicles could be a major selling point.

New Platform, New Infrastructure

The new platform underpinning BYD’s future EVs could further fuel the company’s growth, solidifying its position as a rival to Tesla. However, this technology requires new charging infrastructure, which BYD has committed to developing, planning to build over 4,000 charging stations.

Currently, Tesla’s Superchargers add up to 275 kilometers in 15 minutes. Mercedes-Benz’s new CLA electric sedan can add 325 kilometers in 10 minutes.

Performance and Pricing

BYD claims its new EV platform will enable cars to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in a blistering 2 seconds. The Han L and Tang L SUV will be the first models to feature this ultra-fast charging, priced at 270,000 yuan ($37,338) and 280,000 yuan respectively, starting in April.

Analyst’s Take

“This is BYD ‘elevating the game to another dimension,'” notes Lei Xing, an independent China autos analyst.

BYD’s Impressive Growth

BYD has experienced a strong start to 2025, selling over 318,000 passenger vehicles last month, a 161% increase year-over-year. This makes them the leading carmaker in China, with a market share approaching 15%.

Joanna Chen, a China autos analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence, believes this could boost demand for BYD’s next-generation cars, potentially shifting the balance between battery-electric and hybrid vehicle sales.

Challenging the Competition

BYD is also advancing driver-assistance technology, including features like lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control in even its most affordable models.

Furthermore, BYD’s Super e-Platform could pose a threat to battery manufacturers like Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL).