- Chinese automaker Zeekr has announced a breakthrough in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology.
- The new batteries can charge faster than any other in the market, including those from industry giants Tesla and BYD.
- According to Zeekr, their upgraded batteries can charge from 10% to 80% in just 10 and a half minutes when using their ultra-fast charging stations. In comparison, Tesla, led by Elon Musk, states that a 15-minute charge on its Model 3 can provide enough power to cover 175 miles (282km), which is just under half of the vehicle’s full range.
Zeekr’s latest innovation will debut in their 2025 007 sedan, set to hit the market next week.
The Chinese automaker has also emphasized the battery’s performance in cold weather, noting that it can charge from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes even at temperatures as low as -10°C. This feature could provide a significant advantage in regions with harsh winters.
Industry experts have taken notice of Zeekr’s bold claims. Tu Le, founder and managing director of Sino Auto Insights, claimed that “Tesla’s charging technology is not industry-leading anymore and has not been for some time. These bold claims by Zeekr are believable, but more importantly, even if it’s not the fastest charging EV battery, being one of the fastest is still quite a leap for them.”
Mark Rainford, a China-based car industry commentator, highlighted the fierce competition in China’s EV market. “While brands like BYD prioritize scale and sales, brands like Zeekr, Li Auto, and Nio are focused on maximizing the charging experience,” Rainford explained. He also noted that Zeekr’s parent company, Geely, is a vertically integrated business with the resources to drive such innovation. Geely’s portfolio includes several well-known brands, such as UK-based luxury sports car brand Lotus and Sweden’s Volvo.
Zeekr’s rapid technological advancements come at a time when the company is expanding its presence on the global stage. In May, Zeekr’s shares began trading on the New York Stock Exchange, marking the first major U.S. market debut by a Chinese company since 2021. However, the shares are currently trading 27% below the initial public offering (IPO) price.
The timing of Zeekr’s listing coincided with the Biden administration’s announcement of significant tariff hikes on Chinese-made electric cars, solar panels, steel, and other goods. The White House described these measures, which include a 100% border tax on EVs from China, as a response to unfair trade practices and a move to protect U.S. jobs.
As Chinese EV companies like Zeekr continue to expand their influence globally, concerns are growing among officials in the U.S., European Union, and other major car markets. The rapid overseas expansion of Chinese EV companies poses both a challenge and an opportunity for the global automotive industry.
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