The company intends to build over 4,000 stations across China.

China’s BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, presented last week its groundbreaking "Super e-Platform" featuring the fastest charging speeds for mass-produced vehicles.

This innovation promises to charge an EV in the same time it takes to refuel a gasoline-powered car – under five minutes, further intensifying competition with global rival Tesla.

Fastest EV charging technology to date

The Super e-Platform integrates cutting-edge technology, including a 1000V high-voltage architecture and BYD's proprietary "Flash Charging Battery." This battery delivers an industry-first charging current of 1000A and a charging rate of 10C. With a peak charging power of 1 megawatt (1000 kW), BYD claims the system can add 2 kilometers of range per second.

At the official launch event in Shenzhen, BYD Chairman Wang Chuanfu emphasized the importance of eliminating "charging anxiety," a major barrier to EV adoption. "The ultimate solution is to make charging as quick as refueling a gasoline car," he stated.

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With the new system, a 5-minute charge provides 400 kilometers (249 miles) of range.

This outpaces Tesla's Superchargers, which deliver 200 miles of range in 15 minutes, making BYD’s charging speeds twice as fast.

New models and nationwide charging network

The new charging platform will debut on BYD's Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, which are now available for pre-order in China, starting at 270,000 yuan (approximately $37,329). Deliveries are expected to begin in April 2025.

The company wants to build more than 4,000 "Megawatt Flash Charging" stations across China. The stations will feature self-developed, all-liquid-cooled terminals with a maximum output capacity of 1360 kW.

BYD's market dominance and Tesla rivalry

BYD's aggressive expansion comes as it continues to dominate the Chinese EV market. In 2024, BYD captured 32% of new energy vehicle sales in China, far outpacing Tesla’s 6.1% market share. BYD's sales reached 4.2 million units last year, with a target of 5-6 million units for 2025.

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The American automaker's January sales in the region fell by over 19% year-on-year, ranking it fourth behind BYD, Geely, and SGMW. Tesla recently launched free trials of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in China, hoping to regain momentum despite regulatory delays and competitive disadvantages.

In contrast, BYD offers its advanced driver-assistance system, known as "God’s Eye," at no additional cost, further undercutting Tesla’s $99 monthly subscription fee for FSD in the United States.

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