China firm claims world’s fastest-charging EV battery

BEIJING, Aug 14 (BBC): Chinese car maker Zeekr says its new electric vehicle (EV) batteries charge faster than any of its rivals, including industry leaders Tesla and BYD.
The firm claims its upgraded batteries can be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent capacity in 10 and a half minutes using its ultra-fast charging stations.
In comparison, Elon Musk's Tesla says a 15 minute charge allows its Model 3 to cover 175 miles (282km), a little under half the car's full range.
Zeekr's 2025 007 sedan, which will be available from next week, will be its first vehicle to have the new battery.
The battery performs well even in cold weather charging from 10 per cent to 80 per cent of its capacity in less than half an hour at temperatures as low as -10C, the company also said.
BBC News has contacted Tesla and BYD to request a response to Zeekr's announcement.
Tu Le, founder and managing director of consultancy firm Sino Auto Insights told the BBC: "Tesla's charging technology is not industry leading anymore and has not been for some time."
"These bold claims by Zeekr are believable, but more importantly even if it's not the fastest charging EV battery, being one for the fastest is still quite a leap for them".
"The competition in China is incredibly fierce and while brands like BYD prioritise scale and sales, brands like Zeekr, Li [Auto] and Nio are focused on maximising the charging experience," said Mark Rainford, a China-based car industry commentator.