Chinese electric car brand Zeekr has announced the launch of new batteries that claim to be the fastest-charging in the world, a move aimed at addressing consumer concerns over battery range and charging convenience. Zeekr, which is listed in the U.S., revealed that its new batteries can charge from 10% to 80% in just 10.5 minutes using the company’s ultra-fast charging stations. Even in extreme cold, at negative 10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit), the battery can achieve the same charge level in about 30 minutes.

For comparison, Tesla’s superchargers can add up to 200 miles of range in 15 minutes. The Model 3, for example, can recharge up to 175 miles in 15 minutes, which is roughly 48% of its 363-mile stated range. Meanwhile, another Chinese automaker, Nio, offers a three-minute battery swap service as an alternative, allowing users to replace their car’s battery with a fully charged one at designated swap stations.

Zeekr’s new battery technology will debut in the company’s 2025 007 sedan, which is scheduled to begin deliveries next week. The company has already established over 500 ultra-fast charging stations across China, with plans to double that number by the end of the year. By 2026, Zeekr aims to operate more than 10,000 such stations.

The Geely-owned electric car company has been making significant strides in the EV market, delivering a record number of vehicles in June. This made its first-half deliveries the highest among U.S.-listed Chinese companies that exclusively sell pure electric cars, though deliveries saw a slight decline in July. As competition intensifies, particularly against Tesla and Nio, Zeekr’s new battery technology could be a game-changer in the rapidly evolving Chinese EV market.

(Adapted from CNBC.com)