Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has officially unveiled its new dedicated EV platform, the Super e Platform. This platform boasts ultra-fast charging capabilities that rival the refueling speed of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Five-Minute Charge Adds Over 248 Miles
In an announcement on March 17, BYD revealed that this platform supports a maximum charging speed of 1000 kW, allowing drivers to travel over 400 km (248 miles) after just 5 minutes of charging.
The Super e Platform operates with a maximum current of 1000 A, a voltage of 1000 V, and an output of 1.36 MW.
Wang Chuanfu, BYD’s founder and chairman, explained that EVs equipped with their new platform offer charging speeds comparable to gasoline vehicles. He noted that the charging system operates at a maximum current of 1000 amperes (A), a maximum voltage of 1000 volts (V), and achieves a system output of 1.36 megawatts (MW).
Previously, megawatt-level charging systems were only applied to large commercial vehicles like trucks due to their high costs. Still, BYD emphasized that it has made this technology feasible for passenger cars, crossing the commercialization threshold.
Initial Applications: BYD’s Premium Han L and Tang L EVs
The Super e-Platform’s initial applications include the premium electric sedan Han L EV and the large Tang L EV SUV. Both models boast specifications that outperform competitors in charging efficiency. The Han L EV charges at a speed of 10C, reaching 80-90% in just about 6 minutes from 0%. The Tang L EV supports a charging speed of 8.4C.
BYD plans to establish over 4,000 ultra-fast charging stations across China in conjunction with the launch of this platform.
Advances in Battery and Semiconductor Technology
BYD has also developed its battery technology to enhance EV charging performance. The company expanded the battery pack cooling structure vertically and applied its self-developed silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors in the power management system, raising the breakdown voltage to 1500V. The current handling capability has also been increased to a maximum of 1200A.
The lithium iron phosphate battery improves ion conductivity across the anode, separator, and cathode and introduces self-healing functions to the solid electrolyte interphase formed on the electrode surface. This reduces internal resistance by 50% and extends lifespan by 35%, even in high-temperature environments. The battery cell’s thermal dissipation efficiency has reportedly improved fivefold compared to previous models.
Setting New Industry Benchmarks
BYD’s performance surpasses that of competitors, redefining the standards for ultra-fast charging. Until now, major battery manufacturers like CATL have implemented charging systems at 4C to 6C, allowing for 200 to 300 km (124 to 186 miles) of range. BYD’s Super e Platform far exceeds this, achieving a charging rate of 2 km (1.24 miles) per second, allowing for over 400 km (248 miles) of range in just 5 minutes, setting new benchmarks for EV charging speeds.
Through the Super e Platform, BYD aims to enhance the practicality and convenience of EVs while solidifying its technological competitiveness in the global market.
