BYD's megawatt charging technology will soon reach beyond China's borders
Chinese auto giant BYD is planning to install 1,000kW fast charging stations in the UK. The first such station is due to appear in time for the local market launch of the new Denza Z9 GT electric shuteye in the first quarter of 2026.
Here's What We Know
The 'flash charge' technology, which previously made its debut in China on BYD's Han L and Tang L models, can theoretically add up to 249 miles (400 kilometres) of range in just five minutes - that's several times faster than any other electric vehicle on the market today.
BYD's original plan was to install 5,000 megawatt chargers in China within the first year, but due to the high rate of adoption, the company is already aiming for 15,000 installations in the same timeframe.
The UK will be one of the first markets outside of China to have the technology. According to BYD vice president Stella Li, the company sees the UK as one of its key markets and plans to start installing the first 1,000kW charging stations by the end of 2025.
The timeline for a large-scale rollout in the UK has not yet been specified, but BYD is reportedly already in talks with potential installation partners.
Exactly how such devices will be integrated into the country's power grid is not yet known. However, according to Autocar, the charging stations will be able to be partially powered by local battery packs recharged by solar panels.
The megawatt chargers will initially appear in Denza-branded car dealerships and support the Denza Z9 GT's market launch, followed by a wider rollout across the country.
These will be the most powerful charging stations for electric cars in the UK. The title is currently held by Helix Renewables' 480kW units in Blackpool.
Source: Autocar
