BYD announced plans to install 300 ultra-fast charging stations across the UK within the next 12 months. The Chinese automaker’s Flash-branded network will deliver 1,500kW charging speeds.
Each station will feature two chargers, creating a nationwide network of 600 charging points. The 1,500kW charging capability far exceeds Tesla’s current Supercharger speeds by 1,250kW.
The company plans 6,000 Flash charging locations worldwide. BYD’s luxury division, Denza, said it’s ready to bring the technology to European customers alongside the Z9 GT’s continental launch later this month.
Revolutionary Charging Speeds
The Z9 GT comes as either a plug-in hybrid or full electric vehicle. The EV version uses BYD’s 122kWh Blade battery system that’s built into the car’s chassis.
Flash chargers can power the Z9 GT from 10% to 70% battery capacity in five minutes.
A complete charge takes just nine minutes using the Flash network. Even in extreme cold – temperatures as low as -30°C – the system can charge from 20% to 97% in 12 minutes.
BYD hasn’t announced Flash charging prices yet. Early Z9 GT buyers will get 18 months of free Flash charging through the company’s Flash Pass program.
Universal Access and Installation Plans
The Flash chargers will work with vehicles from all manufacturers using standard CCS2 charging ports. At Denza showrooms, the stations will carry Denza branding – elsewhere they’ll use the Flash name.
BYD hasn’t revealed specific locations but confirmed it’s targeting high-traffic areas for installations.
The company’s exploring partnerships to add on-site solar panels at charging stations. These panels would help power the Flash chargers and reduce grid dependence.
Several existing charge-point operators are in discussions with BYD about installing the technology at their current sites.
UK Market Entry
The Denza Z9 GT will start around £100,000 in the UK market. Deliveries are scheduled to begin this autumn after dealerships open in June or July.
The rear-wheel drive Z9 GT offers up to 497 miles of range per charge. BYD’s tri-motor performance variant produces 947 horsepower.
