The world of electric vehicles (EVs) is witnessing rapid advancements, particularly in battery technology. One of the biggest challenges EV owners face is charging time, but China’s Farasis Energy has taken a major leap forward. The company has unveiled an ultra-fast-charging battery capable of powering up from 10% to 80% in under 10 minutes.
Battery performance is a key factor influencing EV adoption. Buyers consider several factors when purchasing an electric car, such as charging speed, driving range, cost, and safety. To address these concerns, companies are continuously pushing the limits of battery technology, striving for better efficiency and faster charging times.
Lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries have gained popularity due to their affordability, longevity, and safety. While they traditionally lagged behind nickel-based batteries in terms of energy density, recent improvements have helped bridge the gap. However, LFP batteries have historically had one major drawback—slow charging, particularly in cold weather.
Thanks to innovations from companies like CATL, BYD, and Zeekr, LFP batteries now support charging rates of 4C-5C, even in freezing conditions. This means they can handle higher power input without overheating, significantly reducing charging time.
Farasis Energy has taken battery advancements to the next level with its 6C ultra-fast-charging technology. A 6C rating means that the battery can charge at six times its capacity. For instance, a 100-kWh battery could achieve charging speeds exceeding 600 kW, allowing an EV to charge fully in roughly 10 minutes.
A major challenge with such rapid charging is managing heat buildup. To combat this, Farasis Energy redesigned its battery structure to enhance heat dissipation. The new design increases the heat dissipation area by four times in 5C nickel-based batteries and by 4.8 times in the 6C LFP versions. Additionally, the company introduced large pouch-type battery cells, a technology known as the Super Pouch Solution (SPS), which helps maintain optimal temperatures even during high-power charging.
Farasis Energy tested its new technology to evaluate its temperature control capabilities. The results were impressive—charging temperatures remained within 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius). The company reported that its 5C nickel-based battery could charge from 10% to 80% in just 10.2 minutes, while the 6C LFP battery achieved the same in an astonishing 8.55 minutes.
This advancement brings EV charging times closer to the convenience of refueling a gasoline-powered car. However, for 6C charging to be widely adopted, megawatt-level charging stations will be essential.
While battery technology has reached a point where ultra-fast charging is possible, the charging infrastructure must also evolve to support these rapid speeds.