A British engineering company has received official approval to begin mass production of an electric vehicle (EV) battery that can fully charge in just 18 seconds.
The RML Group, based in the UK, has been granted “production conformity certification” for its VarEVolt battery. The certification, issued by government authorities, allows the company to move from prototype and low-volume output to full-scale manufacturing.
James Arkell, head of RML’s powertrain division, said the approval marks a major milestone. “It underscores our readiness to move from prototyping and low-volume production to supporting larger production contracts,” he said in a statement.
High Power, Ultra-Fast Charging
The VarEVolt battery stands out for its power density and rapid charge capabilities. It delivers up to 6 kilowatts per kilogram and can fully charge or discharge in around 18 seconds, thanks to its 200-volt rating.
By comparison, the all-electric Porsche Taycan has a battery rated at just 4 to 5 volts and typically takes 12 to 15 minutes to charge.
RML board member Michael Mallock told Autocar that the battery can release its power very quickly, which makes it suitable for high-performance applications.
Customizable Battery for Different EV Needs
The VarEVolt battery has a modular design, making it flexible for different types of electric vehicles. “We can focus on range, we can focus on power, or we can balance the two,” said Paul Dickinson, CEO of RML Group, in an interview with Autocar.
The battery is already being used in limited quantities by small manufacturers. One of its early applications is in the Czinger 21C hybrid supercar, which combines a high-performance battery-powered electric motor with a gasoline engine. Only 80 units of the 21C are being produced in the car’s initial run.
Upgrades for Existing Supercars
Although current production is limited, RML is planning for broader use of its technology. Mallock revealed that the company is developing upgrade kits for older hybrid supercars such as the Ferrari LaFerrari and McLaren P1.
“For these types of cars, we can make a replacement battery pack that significantly increases the range,” Mallock said. “We can also make a version with eight times the power output, if the rest of the car’s hardware can support it.”
With production approval now secured, RML Group is positioning itself to play a leading role in the next generation of high-performance electric vehicles.
