BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced two new electric models—the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV—featuring revolutionary megawatt-level charging capabilities. These new vehicles can gain approximately 250 miles (400 km) of driving range in just five minutes, a milestone that positions BYD at the forefront of global EV innovation.
Unprecedented Charging Speeds
BYD’s breakthrough is made possible through its proprietary “Super E” 1000V platform and dual-port fast-charging system, allowing the vehicles to receive simultaneous input from two 500-kW chargers. While most electric vehicles currently top out around 350–400 kW in charging power, BYD’s latest advancement effectively doubles the existing industry standard.
Aggressive Pricing Strategy
In a move that further intensifies competition, BYD has priced these cutting-edge EVs well below expectations:
Han L Sedan
- Starting Price: ¥209,800 (approx. $28,544)
- Top Trim: ¥279,800 (approx. $37,935)
Tang L SUV
- Starting Price: ¥229,800 (approx. $31,268)
- Top Trim: ¥289,800 (approx. $39,432)
These figures undercut the initially announced base price for the Han L by nearly $8,000 and place both models below the cost of a standard Tesla Model 3 in China, which starts at approximately ¥235,000 (≈ $32,000).
Performance and Range
Both vehicles come equipped with BYD’s trusted Blade Battery technology (83.2 kWh), offering range estimates between 373 miles (601 km) and 436 miles (701 km) based on China’s CLTC test cycle. While real-world figures may vary, the ability to rapidly recharge mitigates typical range concerns.
Additional performance highlights include:
- Up to 1,086 horsepower
- Advanced driver assistance system (BYD God’s Eye)
- Dual charging ports for concurrent high-capacity input
- Hybrid variant (Han L) with a 1.5-liter engine for extended range flexibility
Implications for the Global Auto Industry
BYD’s announcement signals a significant leap in both technological capability and cost-efficiency. The introduction of megawatt-capable EVs at mass-market prices may redefine global consumer expectations and force legacy automakers to accelerate innovation timelines.
The Han L and Tang L demonstrate that fast, practical, and affordable electric mobility is not a distant goal—it is already being deployed at scale. As BYD leads this transformation from China, Western automakers face increasing pressure to respond with competitive alternatives, or risk losing ground in the rapidly evolving EV sector.