BYD and KFC China partner to sync ultra-fast EV charging with in-car ordering. Power up your car and yourself in just 9 minutes. Discover more!
In a bold move to merge fast food with fast charging, BYD and KFC China have announced a strategic partnership aimed at creating a seamless “one-stop refueling” experience. Signed on April 8 at BYD’s headquarters in Shenzhen, the collaboration focuses on integrating KFC’s ordering services directly into BYD’s modern mobility ecosystem.
A 9-Minute Synergy for Driver and Vehicle
The core vision of this partnership is to synchronize the time it takes to grab a quick meal with the time required to power up an electric vehicle (EV). BYD and KFC are working toward a scenario where both the driver and the car are “recharged” in just nine minutes.
This integration will debut on the Fang Cheng Bao Ti7 model, with plans to roll out the feature across BYD’s wider vehicle lineup. The system allows drivers to select their meals, complete payments, and schedule a pickup using intuitive voice commands, all without taking their eyes off the road.
Seamless Integration and Smart Notifications
To eliminate waiting times, the in-car system will synchronize the vehicle’s GPS route with the KFC ordering process. As the car approaches the restaurant, the system automatically triggers a reminder to pick up the order, ensuring the food is hot and ready the moment the driver arrives.
Cutting-Edge Charging Infrastructure
The partnership isn’t just about software; it’s about hardware. BYD is integrating its ultra-fast charging technology into selected KFC drive-thru locations across China. Thanks to the second-generation Blade Battery, compatible BYD vehicles can charge from 10% to 97% in approximately nine minutes—almost exactly the time needed to handle a fast-food transaction.
BYD’s Aggressive Expansion Strategy
This collaboration is part of BYD’s massive push to dominate the EV charging landscape. The company has already deployed over 5,000 fast-charging stations nationwide, recently expanding its network to include a new high-speed hub in Lanzhou, Gansu province. Currently, BYD’s charging network spans 297 cities across China.
BYD’s ambitions for the coming years are even more significant:
- 20,000 Fast-Charging Stations: The company aims to reach this milestone by the end of 2026.
- Commercial Partnerships: Approximately 18,000 of these stations will be commercial hubs built in collaboration with local network operators.
- Highway Accessibility: 2,000 stations will be dedicated to highways, with BYD planning to place one fast-charging station every 100 kilometers along China’s major expressways.
By blending essential lifestyle services with high-tech infrastructure, BYD is not just selling cars—it is designing an entire ecosystem that removes the “range anxiety” and inconvenience typically associated with EV ownership.