Zeekr's Rapid-Charge Battery Challenges Tesla in the EV Market

U.S.-listed Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker Zeekrhas unveiled a new battery technology that charges significantly faster than current offerings from competitors like Tesla. The new batteries, set to debut in Zeekr's 2025 007 sedan, can charge from 10% to 80% in just 10.5 minutes using the company's ultra-fast charging stations. This feature addresses one of the major concerns among EV consumers—charging time—by significantly reducing the wait time compared to other EVs on the market.

For comparison, Tesla's Model 3 can recharge up to 175 miles, or about 48% of its 363-mile range, in 15 minutes, according to Tesla's website. Zeekr's new battery technology claims to achieve similar performance even in sub-zero temperatures, taking about 30 minutes to reach 80% charge in conditions as low as -10 degrees Celsius. This advantage positions Zeekr as a formidable competitor in the global EV market, especially in regions with harsh winters where battery performance often suffers.

Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely, has expanded its charging infrastructure to support this rapid charging capability. The company has established over 500 ultra-fast charging stations across China, with plans to double this number by the end of the year. By 2026, Zeekr aims to operate more than 10,000 such stations, underscoring its commitment to enhancing the EV ownership experience.

While Tesla remains a dominant player, particularly in the U.S., it faces increasing competition in China, where EV adoption is growing rapidly. Zeekr's June delivery numbers set a record for the company.