China’s BYD Launches EV Charging System It Says Works Nearly As Fast As A Fill Up

BRISTOL, UNITED KINGDOM – FEBRUARY 20: Brand new unregistered BYD electric cars are displayed for sale outside a BYD dealership, on February 20, 2025 in Bristol, England. Chinese owned car maker BYD has become the country’s fastest-growing automotive brand after launching in the UK in 2023. In 2024 it saw a surge in sales expanding both its market share and retail sites. The government’s commitment to reducing future Co2 carbon emissions will mean many more motorists will need to switch from petrol and diesel powered cars to electric (EV) driven ones. However there are also fears that the charging network in the UK is not yet fit to deal with the enormous demand more EVs on the road would place on it. (Photo by Anna Barclay/Getty Images)

BANGKOK (AP) — China’s energy and auto giant BYD has announced a super fast EV charging system that it says is nearly as quick as a fill up at the pumps. BYD said its flash-chargers can provide a full charge for its latest EVs within five to eight minutes. Charging times and limited ranges have been a major factor constraining the switch from gas and diesel vehicles to EVs. BYD says it will roll out its new charging system across China. The news gave Tesla a jolt on Monday, as its share price sank 4.8%. BYD, which stands for build your dreams, began pre-sales of its Han L and Tang L models, which are upgraded versions of earlier models.