Daily EV news · Global · 9 April 2026
EV Charging
BYD to deploy 300 1500kW chargers across UK in 12 months under Flash brand
BYD will install at least 600 chargers at 300 UK sites over the next year, part of a 6000 location global rollout, with devices branded Flash or Denza depending on location. The 1500kW units can charge the Denza Z9 GT's 123kWh battery from 10% to 70% in five minutes and will use CCS2 connectors open to all manufacturers. BYD is partnering with existing site operators rather than building standalone networks, with on site battery packs and solar panels available to reduce grid demand.
Why it matters
The rollout represents one of the largest ultra rapid charging procurements in the UK market and signals a shift toward co location partnerships rather than proprietary networks. CPOs and site hosts now face competitive pressure to accommodate 1500kW infrastructure or risk losing high throughput customers to BYD's Flash network.
Electric Vehicles
Daimler Buses to unveil electric and digital strategy at BUS2BUS 2026
Daimler Buses will present its electric and digital strategy at the BUS2BUS trade fair in 2026, according to Bus-News. The announcement signals the manufacturer's plans to showcase its approach to electrification and digitalisation in the bus sector at the industry event. No specific details on vehicle models, charging infrastructure or deployment timelines were disclosed in the brief notice.
Why it matters
The presentation may preview procurement specifications and charging requirements for public transport operators planning electric bus tenders. Daimler's strategy could influence infrastructure planning for depot and opportunity charging across European bus networks.
Volkswagen upgrades ID 4 and ID 5 with physical controls, V2L and larger batteries
Volkswagen has updated its ID 4 SUV and ID 5 SUV coupé with physical steering wheel buttons, vehicle to load (V2L) capability, and improved battery specifications. Entry level Pure models gain a 52kWh to 58kWh net capacity increase and power rises from 168bhp to 187bhp, extending range from 222 miles to 265 miles while holding the £36,995 starting price. Mid tier Pro versions receive a 77kWh to 79kWh battery upgrade, all wheel drive 4Motion variants see power climb from 282bhp to 294bhp with range reaching 341 miles, and the range topping GTX 4Motion now achieves 336 miles from its 77kWh pack.
Why it matters
The V2L addition positions these high volume VW models as potential grid assets for depot or workplace charging operators exploring bidirectional use cases. Larger batteries and extended range reduce charging frequency demands, easing infrastructure planning for fleet and public network procurements.
Geely unveils EV battery charging from 10% to 80% in five minutes
Chinese automotive group Geely has announced a new electric vehicle battery technology capable of charging from 10% to 80% capacity in just over five minutes, according to Engineering and Technology Magazine. The development represents a significant advancement in fast charging capabilities for electric vehicles. The announcement provides insight into emerging battery technology that could influence future charging infrastructure requirements.
Why it matters
Faster charging batteries may reduce dwell times at charging points, potentially increasing site throughput and affecting the business case for high power charger deployments. CPOs and infrastructure planners will need to assess whether existing charging networks can support the power delivery rates required by such rapid charging technology.