BYD plans to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) landscape in the UK by installing 300 ultra-fast 1500kW chargers over the next year. These new charging stations, branded as ‘Flash’, aim to provide the fastest charging solutions available in the country. Ultimately, BYD intends to roll out a total of 6000 new charging locations globally.
Ultra-Fast Charging Capabilities
The new chargers will be capable of rapidly charging the Denza Z9 GT’s 123kWh battery from 10% to 70% in just five minutes. This capability positions BYD’s charging technology at the forefront of the EV market. Early adopters of the Z9 GT in the UK will benefit from 18 months of complimentary charging, a promotion BYD calls the ‘Flash Pass’.
Collaborative Efforts for Infrastructure Expansion
BYD is collaborating with various partners to maximize the deployment of its charging technology. The plan does not strictly involve BYD-owned locations; instead, the company plans to install its chargers at existing sites. Diego Pareschi, director of EV charging at BYD, emphasized the importance of user experience in a mature market, stating, “People want a seamless experience.”
Universal Charging Accessibility
The chargers will utilize the widely accepted CCS2 charging infrastructure, ensuring that they are available to vehicles from all manufacturers. While the chargers will be branded as Denza at specific dealers, the Flash branding will be ubiquitous in other locations. This dual-branding strategy is designed to enhance market recognition and accessibility.
Addressing Charging Competition
To maintain efficiency and prevent slower charging vehicles from hindering performance, BYD is exploring potential penalties for slower charging rates. As Pareschi noted, “We are still figuring out a way to disincentivize people charging at 50kW.” The company is considering time limitations to enhance the charging experience for users.
Environmental Considerations
BYD emphasizes that their chargers will not place additional strain on the National Grid. The devices are designed to be powered by onsite battery packs, which can be replenished using solar energy. This approach not only supports sustainable energy use but also positions BYD as a forward-thinking leader in the EV charging space.
Future Prospects
In July 2025, the company previously planned to introduce 1000kW charging capabilities in the UK. Due to favorable market conditions, BYD has opted to expand its efforts. The Denza Z9 GT is expected to launch at a price point of around £100,000, with deliveries anticipated in autumn, following the selection of dealers in mid-year.
