China's Hongqi EV Battery Charges 10% to 70% in 3:41 Minutes

FAW Group's Hongqi brand announced that its newest electric‑vehicle battery can charge from 10% to 70% in 3 minutes 41 seconds during testing, and reach 97% in just over 8 minutes. The pack achieves a peak charging rate of 12C, aided by lower internal resistance and a liquid‑cooling system that keeps temperature variation within 3 °C. If the performance translates to production models, it could dramatically shorten charging stops for apartment‑dwelling drivers, ride‑share fleets and long‑distance travelers.

The claim comes amid a broader industry race to slash EV charging times. At a recent Beijing technology event, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) showcased its third‑generation Shenxing LFP battery, which it says can charge from 10% to 98% in under 6½ minutes. BYD Company Ltd. highlighted its second‑generation Blade battery, capable of a 10%‑97% charge in roughly nine minutes. These developments aim to make ultra‑fast charging a mainstream feature, though they also require compatible high‑power infrastructure and grid capacity.