Chinese automaker Zeekr says its new electric vehicle (EV) batteries charge faster than any of its rivals, including industry leaders Tesla and BYD.
The company says its upgraded battery can charge from 10% to 80% capacity in 10 and a half minutes using super-fast charging stations.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s Tesla said that with just 15 minutes of charging, the Model 3 can travel 175 miles (282km), which is only half the car’s maximum travel distance.
Zeekr’s 007 2025 sedan, which is expected to go on sale next week, will be the first model to be equipped with the new battery.
The battery performs well even in cold weather, charging from 10% to 80% capacity in less than half an hour at temperatures as low as -10C, The company also said.
BBC News has contacted Tesla and BYD for comment on Zeekr’s announcement.
“Tesla’s charging technology is no longer industry-leading and has been for some time,” Tu Le, founder and chief executive of consultancy Sino Auto Insights, told the BBC.
“These bold claims from Zeekr are believable, but more importantly, even if this isn’t the fastest charging EV battery, being one of the fastest is still a big step forward for them.”
“Competition in China is fierce and while brands like BYD prioritize scale and sales, brands like Zeekr, Li [Auto] and Nio is focused on maximizing the charging experience,” said Mark Rainford, a commentator on the auto industry in China.
“Zeekr’s parent company, Geely, is essentially a vertically integrated business… they have the resources to do this,” he added.
Geely owns a number of brands, including British luxury sports car brand Lotus and Sweden’s Volvo.
In May, Zeekr shares began trading on the New York Stock Exchange, marking the first time a Chinese company has debuted on the U.S. stock market since 2021.
The stock is currently trading 27% below its initial public offering (IPO) price.
The listing comes just days before the Biden administration announced major tariff increases on electric cars, solar panels, steel and other Chinese-made goods.
The White House said These measures, including a 100% border tax on electric vehicles from China, are a response to unfair policies and are intended to protect American jobs.
Officials in the United States, the European Union and other major auto markets growing concerns about the rapid overseas expansion of Chinese electric vehicle companies.
