Chinese automaker BYD has made a significant breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) technology, introducing a new battery system that can charge an EV in just five minutes. The feat is comparable to refueling a traditional car and marks a major leap for the industry, which has been struggling with charging infrastructure.
BYD claims its new Han L sedan can achieve 249 miles of range in 5 minutes, surpassing Tesla’s best charging rate, which adds 170 miles of range in 15 minutes at one of its high-voltage Superchargers. This development comes as BYD continues to expand globally, including Europe and South America, while also assembling iPads for Apple.
The company’s stock price has surged to $158 billion, representing a 58% increase this year. While some have raised concerns about the potential impact on EV battery lifespan, research suggests that fast charging may not be as detrimental as initially thought.
BYD was founded in 1995 as a battery manufacturing company and has since grown into a leading EV maker in China. Its affordable range of EVs starts at $9,700, making it an attractive option for consumers. As Tesla faces challenges with sales, product lineup, and profitability, BYD’s success highlights the need for a more competitive approach.
The company’s recent announcement to integrate advanced self-driving features into its vehicles further emphasizes its commitment to innovation. With this technology, BYD is poised to maintain its lead in the EV market, while also expanding its presence globally. As Tesla’s valuation continues to decline due to various factors, including Elon Musk’s distractions, BYD’s record-breaking battery charging technology serves as a reminder of the company’s growing strength and competitiveness.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/byd-says-it-can-now-charge-an-electric-car-in-5-minutes-2000577651