Ultra-rapid EV charging
Something that should also generate interest in the brand is a 1,000kW DC “flash charging” system, which is claimed to charge the battery from 10 to 97 per cent in nine minutes and add 250 miles of range in five minutes. It’s a mighty leap forward largely as a result of the robustness of the LFP chemistry and a new design which allows lithium ions to be more easily released (from the anode) and lodged (in the cathode). A new low-friction electrolyte helps speed the passage of ions, with a lower heat build-up. This Mk2 blade design also has a 2.5 per cent reduction in long-term degradation, so it will better withstand repeated ultra-rapid charging.
It sounds highly impressive, although a charging demonstration in China wasn’t quite all it seemed. Figures didn’t add up and at one point it seemed as if the charger was putting more energy into the battery than its total capacity. Nevertheless, it clearly works and there are already 5,300 flash-charger locations in China, with a commitment to have 20,000 by the end of this year. In the UK, BYD says it will have 300 flash chargers operating by the end of the year.
The Telegraph verdict
Last year Jaguar sold only 1,725 cars in the UK, Alfa Romeo 3,000, DS 1,015 and Genesis 1,225. Ineos sold 263 of its off-roaders, while Maserati sales totalled 372, so it isn’t hard to spot the losers in the premium battle.
The winners? Total Audi sales in 2025 were 111,115, BMW 122,723 and Mercedes-Benz (which has eschewed cheap hatchbacks) 89,265. Even Volvo sold 19,125 cars and Lexus shifted 16,454.
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