Dealers hail BYD’s five-minute charging as a “game changer” for EVs

Nine in 10 used car dealers believe BYD’s new five-minute charging technology will be a “game changer” for electric vehicles, according to the latest research from the Startline Used Car Tracker.

The July survey found that 90% of dealers believe the flash-charging technology, which BYD plans to introduce on selected models later this year, will significantly improve the appeal of electric cars.

More than three-quarters (78%) said the technology would make charging an EV as convenient as refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle, while 53% believe it will allow public charging to work much like a traditional fuel station, enabling drivers to queue, charge and continue their journey in a matter of minutes.

The research also suggests the technology could help broaden EV adoption. Almost a third (31%) of dealers said ultra-fast charging would make electric vehicles a more practical option for people without access to home charging, such as those living in terraced houses or apartments.

Only a small minority expressed reservations, with 3% believing the technology will be too expensive and a further 3% suggesting the charging infrastructure required will be too complex to become widely available in the near future.

“BYD plans to introduce flash charging on some models later this year, claiming to charge from 10-70% of battery capacity in five minutes, backed up with a network of proprietary high-speed chargers.

“This appears to be a step change in EV charging and our research shows dealers think consumers will notice and want this technology. Especially, it opens the door to easier EV ownership for people living in terraced houses and apartments who don’t have driveways where their own overnight charger can be installed.”

The survey also found that 87% of dealers expect rival manufacturers to respond by developing similar ultra-fast charging capabilities.

Burgess added: “It’s interesting some manufacturers have said they could emulate the BYD approach but don’t think it is ultimately good for range and long-term battery health. We could potentially see a battle between different approaches to battery tech playing out in the EV market.”

The Startline Used Car Tracker is compiled monthly by APD Global Research on behalf of Startline Motor Finance. The latest edition surveyed 300 consumers and 60 used car dealers.