- Geely-owned Zeekr, set to launch a refreshed version of its 007 model in the coming week, with a license to thrill: its new-generation battery pack will make it the fastest charging electric car in production.
- The record time is capable thanks to an upgrade to an 800V battery on the new model, alongside the use of Zeekr’s own V3 ultra-fast chargers, which are capable of speeds around the 600kW mark.
- The record beats previous holders, such as the Lucid Air.
A new fast charging record?
Under the tests, Zeekr managed to get the 007 EV from 10% to 80% in just 10.5 minutes. Zeekr attributes some of this success to a new thermal management system, which means that even in extreme weather conditions, charging speed will still be acceptable. Tests taken at -10℃ found that the 007 was still capable of reaching a state of charge from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
For now, it’ll only be drivers within China who can take advantage of these ultra-fast charging speeds. The 007 is only being sold in China, for now, while Zeekr’s ultra-fast network also exists within China only. Over 2,700 individual Zeekr fast charging points are available in China so far, with that number set to increase to over 10,000 by 2026. Plus, whilst these Zeekr specific charge points have 600kW charge rates, even the best within Europe are just over half of that – with the emergence of 350kW charging points.
The record speed will go some way to increase consumer confidence in EVs, making charging up take just the same length of time as fuelling an ICE car up. Ever faster charge times aren’t the only solution, however, with EV manufacturer NIO still set on opening battery swapping stations.
