It is China, not Europe or North America, where the quickest-charging and most advanced EVs are coming from. And now BYD’s new Super e-Platform further strengthens that position. After revealing EVs that could charge at up to 500 kilowatts, BYD says its new tech allows up to 1,000 kW charging power, which can replenish range at a rate of 1.2 miles per second.
So that’s 249 miles in 5 minutes, almost as quick as putting fuel in a combustion vehicle. Special charging stations are required to achieve the maximum 1000kW, but BYD has already announced plans to build 4,000 of them around China. The manufacturer didn’t say when it would start building these stations, and it didn’t give a time frame for the completion of the planned 1,000 kW network.
Unlike regular EV chargers, these new high-powered units can’t simply be installed anywhere, as they demand substantial electrical capacity to operate at full power. They also require more direct access to high-voltage mains, limiting their deployment to locations with robust grid infrastructure.
Buyers in China can already pre-order the BYD Han L and BYD Tang L, which are built on the new platform, allowing them to charge faster than any other EV currently on the market.
Single-motor rear-wheel drive vehicles built on the new platform will deliver 671 hp, and dual motors will pair the new high-performance motor with a smaller 308 hp unit driving the front wheels for a combined output of 1,084 hp.
This enables the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV to rocket to 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill in just 2.7 and 3.6 seconds, respectively, with top speeds reaching 190 mph and 170 mph.
The launch of the Super e-Platform promises a turning point in the electric car industry if charging an EV is as convenient as refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle.
BYD clearly wants to assert itself as not only a sales leader in the EV world but also a tech pioneer, and it’s addressing one of buyers’ biggest concerns.
