- tech360.tv
China's Zeekr Claims Title for World's Fastest-Charging EV Battery
Zeekr offers EV battery charging in 10.5 minutes from 10% to 80% capacity. According to industry experts, Zeekr's battery innovation poses a challenge to Tesla's leadership position. Geely's subsidiary, Zeekr, makes a substantial US market debut on the NYSE.
The company claims that its improved batteries can reach 80% capacity from 10% in under 10 and a half minutes when using its ultra-fast charging stations.
In contrast, Tesla, led by Elon Musk, claims that a 15-minute charge allows its Model 3 to travel 175 miles (282 km), or just less than half of the vehicle's complete range. Zeekr's planned 2025 007 sedan, which will go on sale next week, will be the first to incorporate this breakthrough battery technology.
Even in cold weather, Zeekr's battery performs, charging from 10% to 80% capacity in less than 30 minutes at temperatures as low as -10C, according to the manufacturer. BBC News has contacted Tesla and BYD for their responses on Zeekr's announcement.
Tu Le, the founder and managing director of consultancy business Sino Auto Insights, shared with the BBC his perspective on the topic, saying, "Tesla’s charging technology is not industry-leading anymore and has not been for some time." He further added, "These bold claims by Zeekr are believable, but more importantly, even if it’s not the fastest charging EV battery, being one of the fastest is still quite a leap for them."
Mark Rainford, a car industry commentator based in China, highlighted the intense competition in the Chinese market, noting that while brands like BYD focus on scale and sales, companies like Zeekr, Li [Auto], and Nio concentrate on enhancing the charging experience. Rainford also pointed out that Zeekr's parent company, Geely, is a highly integrated business with ample resources to drive such innovations.
Geely, the parent company of Zeekr, owns various brands, including the UK-based luxury sports car manufacturer Lotus and Sweden's Volvo. In May, Zeekr made its debut on the New York Stock Exchange, becoming the first major Chinese company to do so since 2021. However, the company's shares are currently trading 27% below their initial public offering (IPO) price.
This listing occurred shortly before the Biden administration announced significant tariff increases on Chinese-made electric vehicles, solar panels, steel, and other products. The White House justified these measures, including a 100% border tax on Chinese EVs, as responses to unfair policies aimed at safeguarding US jobs. Concerns have been mounting among officials in the US, the European Union, and other key car markets regarding the rapid global expansion of Chinese EV firms.
Zeekr introduces EV battery charging in just 10.5 minutes from 10% to 80% capacity.
Industry experts suggest Zeekr's battery innovation challenges Tesla's leading position.
Geely's subsidiary, Zeekr, marks a significant US market debut on the NYSE.
Source: BBC