Biplab Das 
As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, one of the most significant hurdles remains the lengthy recharge times compared to the quick refuelling of combustion-engine vehicles. However, this challenge may soon be overcome, thanks to groundbreaking advancements by Chinese firms BYD and CATL. These companies are on the brink of launching lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries capable of ultra-fast recharging, promising to revolutionise the EV experience.
Breakthrough in battery technology
BYD and CATL, two giants in the battery industry, are reportedly set to introduce their ultra-fast-charging LFP batteries by the end of this year. According to reports from CarNewsChina, these batteries can theoretically be fully recharged in just 10 minutes. This remarkable feat is achieved through a 6C charging rate, a significant leap from the current standards.
The “6C” terminology denotes a charging rate six times the battery’s capacity. For example, a 100-amp-hour battery could be charged with a 600-amp current. This rapid charging rate dramatically reduces downtime for EV owners, making long road trips more feasible without extensive planning for charging stops.
Infrastructure
While the advancements in battery technology are impressive, they bring to light the critical need for supporting infrastructure. Existing charging stations must be upgraded to handle the increased power demands of 6C-capable batteries. Without these enhancements, the benefits of these high-tech batteries will be limited, leaving EV owners reliant on slower charging options.
The current generation of DC fast chargers for 4C-rated batteries can deliver a maximum power of 480 kW with a peak current of 615A. To support 6C charging, either the voltage, the amp rating, or both would need to be increased significantly. Achieving this on a large scale requires substantial financial investment and time.
Managing peak charging speeds
Another challenge is the inherent nature of batteries to taper off charging speeds as they approach full capacity. Marketing strategies might highlight a 10% to 80% recharge time of 10 minutes rather than a full charge, similar to the current Zeekr 001, which recharges from 10% to 80% in 11.5 minutes with a 5C-capable battery.
Progress in charging infrastructure
Despite these challenges, progress is being made. Earlier this year, Huawei deployed its first 600 kW fast chargers, setting a new benchmark. Li Auto, known for its Mega minivan that can gain 310 miles of range in just 10 minutes, plans to install 5,000 5C-capable fast chargers by next year. These advancements indicate a clear trajectory towards supporting ultra-fast charging on a broader scale.
Comparisons with global standards
Globally, charging infrastructure varies significantly. Tesla’s Supercharger network, the largest in the United States, currently provides up to 250 kW per V3 stall. While this is commendable, it lags behind the capabilities of other providers. Electrify America offers up to 350 kW per stall, and Gravity Charging’s hub in New York delivers up to 500 kW to each connected EV.
These differences highlight the urgent need for upgrading charging infrastructure to keep pace with technological advancements in battery capabilities. The investments required are substantial, but the potential benefits for the EV industry and consumers are immense.
The road ahead
As BYD and CATL prepare to launch their 6C batteries, the focus shifts to whether the infrastructure can keep up. The introduction of these batteries marks a significant milestone in the EV industry, potentially making long charging stops a thing of the past. However, the realisation of this potential hinges on rapid advancements and investments in charging infrastructure.
While the technological breakthrough by BYD and CATL is set to redefine EV charging, the pace of infrastructure development will determine the speed and extent of its impact. As we edge closer to a future where EVs can recharge as quickly as refuelling a petrol car, the industry must tackle these challenges head-on to make ultra-fast charging a widespread reality.
