In the UAE, BYD and Al Futtaim have introduced a groundbreaking charging technology that promises to change the way drivers experience electric vehicles. The new Megawatt Flash Charging system delivers a level of speed and convenience that rivals traditional refueling, making electric cars a more practical choice for everyday use. With this move, the UAE continues its push toward becoming a leader in sustainable transportation.
The new BYD system allows drivers to add 400 kilometers of range in just 5 minutes, which is close to the time it takes to fill a tank with fuel. This translates to around 2 kilometers of range every second, setting a new global benchmark in EV technology. The system relies on a 1000 volt high voltage setup and can handle up to 1000 amps with a 10C charging rate. These record numbers are paired with a liquid cooled charging unit rated at 1360 kilowatts, ensuring stability and safety even under the extreme heat of the UAE.
This initiative is part of the UAE Net Zero 2050 plan, which aims to make the country a hub for clean transportation. According to Al Futtaim’s electric mobility division, the project removes one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption: long charging times. By making charging as fast as refueling, BYD is helping the UAE set the stage for a large scale shift toward electric mobility. The move highlights the country’s strategy to lead the region in sustainability, innovation, and green energy solutions.
The first models to benefit from the new technology will be the BYD Han L and BYD Tang L, both built on the brand’s advanced Super e Platform. These cars are designed to handle the high charging speeds safely and efficiently, making them the pioneers of this new era of ultra fast charging in the UAE. The rollout is expected to start in 2026 with trial stations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi before expanding across the Middle East. For drivers, this means a future where recharging an EV could be faster than grabbing a coffee on the go.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.