BYD and CATL are preparing to produce ultra-fast-charging lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that, in theory, can be fully recharged in 10 minutes which may help push the use of EVs even further.
BYD and CATL’s Battery Breakthrough
BYD and CATL are set to introduce ultra-fast-charging LFP batteries by the end of this year, utilizing a 6C charging rate that is six times the battery capacity. Advanced batteries require charging stations to upgrade their charging infrastructure to fully benefit from this new technology.
Batteries cannot maintain peak speeds throughout the charging cycle. Strategic marketing is expected, focusing on specific charging windows like 10% to 80% in 10 minutes. The 2024 Zeekr 001 with a 5C-rated battery achieves an 11.5-minute charge time.
BYD and CATL are developing 6C batteries, with DC fast chargers capable of delivering up to 480 kW of power and 615 amps of current. However, increasing voltage or amperage would require significant financial investment. Progress is being made, with Huawei deploying 600 kW fast chargers and Li Auto planning to install 5,000 5C-capable fast chargers.
Tesla’s Supercharger network in the US offers 250 kW of power from V3 stalls, but other US providers like Electrify America and Gravity Charging offer up to 350 kW and 500 kW respectively. Advancements in battery technology are paving the way for faster charging times.
Miguel Palispis
Started his freelancing adventure in 2018 and began doing freelance Audio Engineering work and then started freelance writing a few years later. Currently he writes for Gadget Pilipinas and Grit.PH. He is also a musician, foody, gamer, and PC enthusiast.
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