Lotus Emeya Sets New Record for Fastest Public EV Charging

In the world of electric vehicles, the ultimate speed challenge is not acceleration, but how quickly a car can recharge its battery. Automakers have long aimed to match the convenience of refuelling a petrol car, and Lotus has now made a significant breakthrough with its new electric hyper-GT, the Emeya.

During an independently verified test by Lotus Al Ghanim in Kuwait, Lotus Emeya set a new benchmark for rapid charging on a public network. The test focused on the crucial 10 to 80% charge window, a standard for real-world EV use.

Using Lotus’s own ultra-fast 450 kW DC charger, the Emeya achieved a peak charging rate of 443 kW, recharging its battery from 10 to 80% in just 13 minutes and 35 seconds. Notably, this was accomplished in Kuwait’s harsh climate, demonstrating both the car’s and the charging system’s resilience.

The Emeya’s rapid charging capability is made possible by its advanced 800V electrical architecture, which is designed for high-speed charging and improved efficiency. This technology is also featured in the Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV.

The Emeya’s battery uses a cell-to-pack design, allowing for about 20% more cells in the same space compared to traditional batteries, resulting in higher energy density. An innovative cooling system further enhances thermal management during both driving and charging.

For users, this translates to impressive range and minimal charging downtime. The Emeya can add up to 310 km of range in just 10 minutes, and offers a WLTP range of up to 610 km, with an energy consumption rate of 18.7 kWh per 100 km.

Lotus has also developed an integrated charging ecosystem, accessible via the Lotus Cars app and the in-car HyperOS system. This platform provides intelligent EV routing, helping drivers locate nearby public chargers and plan optimal routes based on real-time battery status, reducing range anxiety and travel time.

Lotus is rolling out its 450 kW DC chargers across Europe, starting in Germany. While Emeya's record highlights the readiness of EV technology, the next step is expanding fast-charging infrastructure to match.

Also read: Mahindra XEV 9S Teased Again, Powered Front Passenger Seat Offered