Chinese media outlet Cankao Xiaoxi on the 26th introduced an article by the U.S. Associated Press (AP) stating that 'Chinese manufacturers are leading in electric vehicle (EV) charging technology development, achieving ultra-fast charging in 5 minutes.' The article stated that 'EV charging is becoming increasingly faster in China,' and introduced that regarding Geely Automobile (Geely)'s announcement on the 23rd of technology capable of charging EV batteries from 10% to 70% in 4 minutes and 30 seconds, and from 10% to 97% in 8 minutes and 40 seconds, analysts evaluated this as 'a significant advancement for Chinese automakers.'

According to the article, Geely has joined the ranks of BYD, which has become the world's largest EV manufacturer, and Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), the world's largest EV battery manufacturer. Both companies have launched EV ultra-fast charging systems this year that can charge in approximately 5 minutes.

The article stated, 'In comparison, even the fastest-charging EVs currently available in the U.S. take about 20 minutes to charge,' and quoted Chinese independent analyst Lei Xing as saying, 'In terms of the number of companies entering the charging race, China is far ahead.' It also quoted S&P Global Ratings analyst Stephen Ching as saying, 'Chinese manufacturers are attempting to alleviate range anxiety, the ultimate barrier to EV adoption, by narrowing the gap between EV charging times and the roughly 5-minute refueling time for gasoline cars.'

According to the article, in March, BYD announced its new generation 'Blade Battery' capable of charging EV batteries from 10% to 70% in 5 minutes and from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes. In April, CATL announced technology capable of charging EV batteries from 10% to 80% in 3 minutes and 44 seconds, and from 10% to 98% in 6 minutes and 27 seconds.

On the other hand, the article pointed out, 'Despite these groundbreaking achievements, experts warn of other obstacles.' It quoted Chris Liu, a senior analyst at technology research and advisory group Omdia, as saying, 'The true challenge is whether the battery can rapidly and repeatedly accept that level of current without overheating, excessive degradation, or internal bottlenecks.'

The article noted, 'In China, where there are over 100 passenger car brands, automakers are facing fierce competition. Focusing on technological innovations like ultra-fast charging is one way to differentiate themselves from competitors and improve sales. However, success depends on various factors, such as the scale of the charging network.' It quoted Stephen Ching as saying, 'The majority of public charging stations in China still operate at less than 1 megawatt. Geely, BYD, and CATL's ultra-fast charging technologies require higher charging power to demonstrate their full potential.'

The article stated, 'Ambitious initiatives are already underway in some parts of the industry,' and as an example, introduced that BYD plans to install 20,000 ultra-fast charging stations by the end of this year. (Translated and Edited by Yanagawa)