Joe McConnell
Chinese automaker Zeekr says the batteries in its new electric cars (EVs) charge faster than those of all its competitors, including industry leader Tesla.
The company says its upgraded batteries can be charged from 10% to 80% capacity in 10.5 minutes using its ultra-fast charging stations.
For comparison, Elon Musk’s Tesla says a 15-minute charge gives its Model 3 175 miles (282 km), just under half of the car’s full range.
Zeekr’s 2025 007 sedan, which will be available next week, will be the first vehicle to feature the new battery.
“Tesla’s charging technology is no longer at the forefront of the industry and hasn’t been for a long time,” said Tu Le, founder and chief executive of consulting firm Sino Auto Insights.
“These bold claims by Zeekr are credible, but more importantly, even if it’s not the fastest charging EV battery, being one of the fastest is still a big step forward for them.”
The battery also performs well at low temperatures, charging from 10% to 80% of its capacity in less than half an hour at temperatures as low as -10°C. the company says.
BBC News contacted major electric vehicle manufacturers Tesla and BYD to ask for a response to Zeekr’s announcement.
Zeekr is owned by Chinese car manufacturing giant Geely, which also owns UK-based luxury sports car brand Lotus and Sweden’s Volvo.
In May, Zeekr shares began listing on the New York Stock Exchange, marking the first major U.S. market debut by a Chinese company since 2021.
The shares are currently trading at a price 27% below its initial public offering (IPO).
The listing came just days before the Biden administration announced major tariff hikes on electric cars, solar panels, steel and other Chinese-made goods.
The White House said The measures, which included a 100% border tax on electric vehicles from China, were a response to unfair policies and aimed at protecting U.S. jobs.
Officials in the United States, the European Union and other major auto markets are increasingly concerned about the rapid overseas expansion of Chinese electric vehicle companies.
