Experimental Battery Sets New Charging Speed Record
Hongqi, a brand under FAW Group, in partnership with Lishen Battery, has developed an experimental battery that demonstrated remarkable charging efficiency in recent tests. At an ambient temperature of 25°C, the battery charged from 10% to 70% in just 3 minutes and 41 seconds, and from 10% to 97% in 8 minutes and 3 seconds, with a peak charging rate of 12C. For an 80-kWh battery, a 12C rate translates to a peak charging power of 960 kW, far exceeding current industry standards.
Hongqi stated that during the test, the internal temperature difference across the battery pack was kept within 5.4°F. The core technologies enabling this performance include a new anode material, electrolyte formulation, carbon coating process, and a liquid cooling system, which collectively reduce internal resistance and maintain stable temperatures. However, Hongqi has not disclosed the battery’s specific capacity, chemical system, production vehicle plans, or timeline for market availability.
FAW Group Advances 1,000-Volt Architecture
FAW Group previously announced the development of a 1,000-volt electric vehicle architecture, targeting an 80% charge in just five minutes. While industry speculation suggests a potential link between this architecture and Hongqi’s experimental battery, neither FAW Group nor Hongqi has confirmed any connection. Details about the experimental battery’s practical application and production feasibility remain undisclosed.
Intense Competition in China’s Fast-Charging Technology
China’s electric vehicle industry has seen fierce competition in fast-charging technology, with multiple automakers and battery manufacturers achieving breakthroughs. Last year, BYD demonstrated a one-megawatt charging system capable of adding over 50% charge to its Han L sedan’s battery in under five minutes. BYD’s Super e-Platform theoretically supports up to 1,000 kW of charging power, enabling a potential range increase of nearly 250 miles in five minutes.