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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Environment
Jasper Jolly

What is EV maker BYD and can its batteries really charge in five minutes?

BYD’s electric vehicle factory in Rayong, Thailand
BYD’s electric vehicle factory in Rayong, Thailand. The company is the world’s biggest manufacturer of battery electric and plug-in hybrid electric cars that combine a battery and a petrol engine. Photograph: Chalinee Thirasupa/Reuters

The leading Chinese electric carmaker BYD has soared in value after it said its latest batteries charge fast enough to add 400km (249 miles) of range in only five minutes.

BYD’s Hong Kong-listed shares gained 4.1% on Tuesday to hit a record high of 408.80 Hong Kong dollars ($40.58), as investors bet that the company could strengthen its already commanding market position.

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