Boasts about ever-faster charging electric vehicles (EVs) have become commonplace, but UK startup Nyobolt might have just delivered a reason to celebrate. In a recent test, Nyobolt achieved a remarkable feat: charging an EV from 10% to 80% in a mere four minutes and 37 seconds. That’s quicker than grabbing a coffee, a stark contrast to the usual EV charging experience.
The impressive achievement took place at a racetrack in Bedford, England. Nyobolt used a custom-designed electric sports car equipped with their proprietary battery technology. This Cambridge University spin-off has unlocked the potential for significantly faster charging by innovating the chemistry of standard lithium-ion batteries. Their technology allows the battery to absorb a much larger charge in a shorter timeframe, all while maintaining safety and avoiding degradation or fire hazards.
The secret sauce behind this breakthrough lies in a novel anode material developed by Nyobolt. However, the specific details surrounding this material remain undisclosed for now.
To showcase their innovative battery tech, Nyobolt built a sports car prototype reminiscent of the Lotus Elise. This lightweight vehicle, weighing only 1,250 kg, boasts a 35 kWh battery with an official range of 250 km.
Last year, Nyobolt unveiled the electric sports car concept alongside a bold claim: a full recharge in less than six minutes. During the recent live demonstration, they delivered on that promise – almost. According to Dr. Sai Shivareddy, Nyobolt’s co-founder, the test drive encountered a minor cooling system malfunction that prevented the EV from achieving the full six-minute target [source: BBC].
Despite this minor setback, the feat is undeniably impressive and highlights the rapid advancements in EV technology. In an industry still grappling with range anxiety and slow charging times, a battery capable of a six-minute charge could be a game-changer.
While the EV prototype remains a one-off for now, Nyobolt has hinted at the possibility of “low volume production” next year. However, their primary focus remains on the revolutionary batteries powering the future of EVs.
