Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD has been making waves globally with its advanced fast-charging technology. However, India's EV sector is also witnessing rapid innovation. Bengaluru-based energy-tech startup Exponent Energy is set to challenge BYD by introducing the world's first 1.5 MW ultra-fast charging system for EVs in India later this year. The startup has already launched a 1 MW rapid charging system for electric buses in the country, matching BYD’s current fast-charging capabilities.

Exponent Energy: Powering India’s EV Revolution

Exponent Energy is a B2B energy solutions provider specializing in electric mobility. The company designs batteries and charging infrastructure for commercial vehicle manufacturers. It claims that its fast-charging network can fully charge an EV in just 15 minutes.

Founded in 2020 by Arun Vinayak and Sanjay Balyal, both former Ather Energy executives, Exponent Energy has developed a complete charging ecosystem featuring:

• E^Pack (Battery Pack)
• E^Pump (Charging Station)
• E^Plug (Charging Connector)

BYD’s Breakthrough: 400 km in 5 Minutes

BYD, known for its cutting-edge Super e-Platform, has set a new benchmark in the industry. The Chinese automaker recently launched a 1 MW fast-charging system that can charge an EV for a range of 400 km in just 5 minutes. BYD Chairman Wang Chuanfu emphasized that this technology could reduce EV charging time to match traditional fuel refueling speeds.

Exponent’s 1 MW vs. 1.5 MW Charging Technology

While BYD is excited about 1 MW fast charging, Exponent Energy CEO Arun Vinayak stated that the company already offers 1 MW charging in India and is working to make it more accessible and scalable. Exponent has successfully deployed over 1,700 EVs equipped with its technology across India.

What 1.5 MW Fast Charging Means for EVs

A 1.5 MW (megawatt) charger significantly enhances charging speeds. For example:

• If an EV has a 100 kWh battery, a 1.5 MW charger could theoretically fully charge it in just 4 minutes.
• A 1 MW charger would take about 6 minutes for the same battery.
• The Tata Nexon EV, one of India’s top-selling electric cars, has a 45 kWh battery with a range of 489 km. With 1.5 MW charging, it could be fully charged in under 5 minutes.

While actual charging times may vary due to factors like battery condition and temperature, Exponent Energy’s 1.5 MW technology could revolutionize India’s EV industry, making ultra-fast charging a reality.