Charging is becoming as fast as refueling. In March 2025, BYD pushed battery charging to the 10C level, marketing "5 minutes of charging for 400 km of range." In 2026, its second-generation Blade Battery - using a lithium iron phosphate chemistry - can charge from 10% to 70% in 5 minutes and from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes.
The industry's charging competition has entered high gear. In October, Chery unveiled its Xunlong Mega-Charge system at its global innovation conference, delivering 1.44 MW of power - enough to add 500 km of range in 5 minutes. Geely has rolled out "AI Smart Charge" paired with its mass-produced 12C Shield Gold Brick battery, reaching 10%-70% in just 4 minutes 30 seconds. Li Auto is validating 15C batteries, targeting commercialization in 2027, while CATL's third-generation Shenxing battery with 15C peak charging is expected to enter mass production by the end of 2026.
With battery energy density nearing its ceiling, the battleground has shifted from range and capacity to replenishment speed. Industry observers say intelligent charging management will be the core variable in the next phase of the race.
