BYD Flash Chargers are starting their overseas rollout, and the numbers make the network one of the most aggressive charging plays in Europe. Electrek reports that BYD has opened Flash Charging sites in Germany and the UK after introducing its Blade Battery 2.0 and Flash Charging system earlier this year.
The headline figure is charging power. BYD says the stations can deliver up to 1,500kW, which is three times the 500kW rating of Tesla’s latest V4 Superchargers. That maximum output will not be available to every EV, but it shows how far BYD wants to push charging speed as a competitive advantage.
BYD Flash Chargers target gas-station speed
For vehicles with BYD’s newest battery system, the company describes the experience as “Ready in 5, Full in 9, Cold Add 3.” In practical terms, that means a 10% to 70% charge in 5 minutes and a 10% to 97% charge in 9 minutes. Even at temperatures as low as -30C, BYD claims the pack can go from 20% to 97% in 12 minutes.
Pricing could be just as important as speed. BYD UK’s country manager Bono Ge told Autocar that the company wants pricing around 50 pence per kWh, with an ideal target below that level. Electrek notes that BYD can use batteries charged overnight during off-peak grid hours, which could help reduce operating costs during the day.
The chargers use a standard CCS connector, so other EVs can plug in, but only BYD models with the latest battery technology can reach the highest speeds. The first European vehicle tied to the rollout is the Denza Z9 GT, which starts at about EUR 115,000 including VAT.
BYD plans 300 Flash Chargers in the UK and 3,000 across Europe by the end of 2026. If the pricing and reliability hold up, this could put pressure on Tesla, Ionity, and other fast-charging networks.
You can follow more developments in Technowatt’s EVs & Transportation coverage.