Huge EV boost as new chargers planned for UK add 249 miles in just 5 minutes
Brits with electric vehicles (EVs) are set to experience a giant leap forward in charging technology - but there's one small catch.
Chinese automotive giant BYD is preparing to bring its ultra-fast 'Flash Chargers' across the UK in a move set to dramatically enhance the UK's EV infrastructure, making charging quicker and more convenient than ever before. The new chargers, capable of delivering up to 1 megawatt (1,000 kW) of power, are engineered to reduce charging times substantially.
However, these new technologies won't be rolled out in the UK until 2026, meaning EV owners will have to wait months before getting their hands on the super-fast chargers. The news comes shortly after BYD announced the creation of its own ultra-fast EV charger, representing a major step forward in the industry. It stands out for its remarkable capability — it can add approximately 1.2 miles of range every second, meaning drivers could gain up to 249 miles of range in just five minutes.
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This speed is comparable to the time it takes to refuel traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, effectively closing the gap between electric and petrol/diesel cars in terms of convenience and usability. The rollout of these high-speed chargers is expected to make EV ownership significantly more attractive to a broader range of drivers.
In an exclusive interview with the Independent, BYD special advisor Alfredo Altavilla confirmed the company's ambitious plans. He stated: "In 2026. You will get a few stations in every country in Europe. They will be branded BYD, but they will be open to everybody."
So while Flash Chargers will carry BYD branding, they will be accessible to all electric vehicle owners, not just those driving the manufacturer's models. But it's important to note that only vehicles equipped to handle megawatt-level charging will be able to take full advantage of the fastest charging speeds these stations will offer.
BYD's latest car tech — the Super e-Platform — features a 1,000V high-voltage architecture with a Flash Charging Battery. It is available in the Han L and Tang L models, which can already be ordered in China.
BYD's advisor told the Independent that Denza — the manufacturer's more upmarket brand — models would debut BYD's new technology across the UK and Europe, along with SUVs and sports cars from BYD's luxury brand Yangwang. Altavilla said: "The idea is for Denza and Yangwang to be the so-called technology manifesto of the BYD group. Those are the two brands where all new technologies will be firstly introduced. So, the flash charging for example."
The introduction of BYD's Flash Chargers represents a major milestone in the evolution of EV infrastructure in the UK. With the ability to add nearly 250 miles of range in just five minutes, these chargers promise to make EVs even more practical and appealing for everyday use.
As the UK moves towards a more environmentally friendly future, such innovations are set to play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of greener technology and reducing our reliance on planet-killing fossil fuels.
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