BYD and Al-Futtaim Bring Megawatt Flash Charging to the UAE

BYD, in partnership with Al-Futtaim, has taken another big step toward transforming electric mobility in the UAE with the unveiling of its Megawatt Flash Charging technology. The system aims to tackle one of the biggest challenges in electric vehicle adoption, charging time, and could mark the beginning of a new era for EV ownership across the Emirates.

This innovation follows closely after the launch of the BYD Shark 6, the UAE’s first plug-in hybrid pickup truck, and further strengthens BYD’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

Revolutionizing EV Charging Speed

At the heart of this new development is BYD’s Megawatt Flash Charging system, which claims to make EV charging as fast as refuelling a petrol car. According to BYD, the system can add up to 400 km of driving range in just five minutes, translating to roughly two kilometres of range for every second of charging.

This breakthrough directly addresses “charging anxiety,” one of the most common concerns among EV owners. BYD’s Executive Vice President, Stella Li, explained that the company’s goal is to deliver a charging experience that matches the convenience of traditional fuel stations.

The technology achieves this through a 1,000V high-voltage architecture and a charging current of up to 1,000A, delivering a rate of 10C, both global firsts for mass-produced electric vehicles. This combination makes BYD’s Flash Charging system one of the most powerful and efficient charging solutions ever introduced to the public market.

Built for the UAE’s Sustainable Future

The UAE government has been actively promoting cleaner mobility and sustainable transport solutions, and innovations like BYD’s Megawatt Flash Charging align perfectly with this vision.

Lucas Bellieud, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility, highlighted that this technology can remove one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption, long charging times. “This breakthrough makes charging as quick as refuelling a gasoline car,” he said, emphasizing how it enhances both convenience and confidence for current and future EV owners in the region.

The Megawatt Flash Charging system also features the world’s first all-liquid-cooled charging terminal, capable of delivering up to 1,360 kW. This ensures stable operation and prevents overheating, making it ideal for large-scale deployment in the UAE’s hot climate.

Supporting EV Drivers and Businesses

For UAE drivers, this technology means faster charging, reduced downtime, and easier integration of EVs into daily life. Fleet operators and logistics companies, in particular, stand to benefit as charging time directly impacts operational efficiency.

While details on the rollout timeline are yet to be confirmed, BYD and Al-Futtaim have stated that information about station locations and compatible models will be shared in the coming months. Currently, BYD’s Super e-Platform models, including the Han L and Tang L, are expected to be among the first to support Megawatt Flash Charging.

With charging speeds now rivaling petrol refuelling, the technology could play a key role in encouraging more UAE residents to transition to electric vehicles, without worrying about range or wait times.

A Step Forward for UAE’s EV Landscape

The unveiling of BYD’s Megawatt Flash Charging system reinforces the UAE’s position as a regional hub for sustainable innovation and advanced mobility. It complements the country’s broader efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and encourage eco-friendly transportation alternatives.

For BYD and Al-Futtaim, this is more than just a technological advancement; it’s a statement of intent. Together, they’re building the infrastructure and confidence needed for a fully electric future, one that combines speed, efficiency, and reliability for every driver on UAE roads.

As the nation’s EV ecosystem evolves, drivers can look forward to charging that’s no longer a compromise, but a convenience that redefines what’s possible in sustainable mobility.