Updated guide to BYD charging in 2025: differences between AC and DC , real-world times, charging curves , choosing a home wallbox , and practical advice for Dolphin and Seal .
✅ Overview: AC vs. DC and Connectors
The BYD 2025 supports AC charging via Type‑2 and DC fast charging via CCS Combo 2. In summary:
- AC (Type-2) : Home/office charging, ideal for 70-90% of uses. Typical power: 7.4 kW (single-phase) or 11 kW (three-phase), depending on the model's onboard charger.
- DC (CCS2) : Fast charging on the go. Actual peak power varies based on SoC, battery temperature, and firmware (e.g., best-case windows between 10% and 60%).
- Cables/Adapters : Type‑2 cable (for AC columns) and, if necessary, Type‑2 → Type‑2 adapter for different wallboxes or replacement cables.
For more information on battery chemistry and management, see BYD BLADE BATTERY: LIFE, DEGRADATION AND BMS (2025)
Charging Curves: What to Expect
BYD curves typically show a peak power phase up to around 40-60% SoC , followed by a downward ramp to protect the battery. Key factors:
- Thermal pre-conditioning : essential in winter to immediately achieve the target DC power.
- Firmware/OTA : Periodic updates can optimize plateau and curve stability.
- State of Battery (SoC) : Reaching DC between 10-20% reduces overall times; above 80% the power drops significantly.
Practical advice: when traveling, do short taps of 10→60/70% and then drive off again; at home, charge using AC, avoiding the daily 100% charge.
⏱️ Approximate reload times (Dolphin/Seal)
Actual times depend on battery capacity , available power , temperature and starting SoC . Indicative values for a 10→80% cycle:
| Scenario | BYD Dolphin (medium battery) | BYD Seal (major batt.) |
|---|---|---|
| AC 7.4 kW (single-phase) | ~6–8 h | ~8–11 h |
| AC 11 kW (three-phase)* | ~4.5–6 h | ~6–8 h |
| DC 100–120 kW (peak) | ~25–35 min | ~30–45 min |
*Availability of 11 kW AC and peak DC power varies by model/year. Always check the owner's manual and the "onboard charger" information.
Model-specific insights:
- BYD DOLPHIN 2025: COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
- BYD SEAL 2025: COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
- BYD SEAL U 2025: COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
- BYD ATTO 3 YUAN PLUS 2025: MOST COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
- BYD HAN 2025: COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
- BYD TANG 2025: COMMON PROBLEMS, SOLUTIONS, AND ADVICE
🏠 Home Wallbox: Choice, Power, and Installation
- Recommended power : 7.4 kW (single-phase) for standard homes; 11 kW (three-phase) if available and compatible with the vehicle.
- Load management : prefer wallboxes with load balancing to avoid meter disconnections.
- Smart features : night-time programming, two-hourly rates, photovoltaic integration.
- Installation : dedicated line, suitable differential (type A/F), earthing check, testing.
Pulsar Max Wallbox – 7.4 kW EV Charger
Electric vehicle charger with Type 2 connector and 5 m cable. Supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and OCPP. Easy installation, indoors or outdoors, up to 7.4 kW.
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MCEVKELN EV Charger Type 2 – 3.6KW
Portable charging cable Type 2 Schuko 5M, power 3.6KW with 6-16A switch box. Compatible with IEC 62196-2, ideal for electric cars and plug-in hybrids.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon🌡️ Charging in winter/summer: best practices
- Winter : Pre-condition cabin while plugged in; run DC with warm battery; prefer nighttime AC; leave extra SoC headroom.
- Summer : Avoid DC immediately after long motorway trips; prefer AC in the evening; keep the car in the shade or use the air conditioning when stationary with it connected.
- Daily : Use 20-80% window; only increase to 100% before long trips or every 1-2 months for BMS recalibration.
💶 Indicative costs and accessories (2025)
| Voice | Detail | Range €* |
|---|---|---|
| Wallbox 7.4–11 kW | Smart, load balancing, app | 650 – 1,400 |
| Standard installation | Dedicated line, protections, testing | 300 – 800 |
| Type‑2 32A cable (5–7 m) | For public AC columns | 120 – 230 |
| Adapters/Supports | Type‑2, brackets, bags | 20 – 90 |
*Average market prices 2025 including VAT, excluding any local incentives and electrical panel adjustments.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to always charge to 100%?
No. For daily use, stay between 20% and 80%. Go to 100% before long trips or every 1-2 months for BMS recalibration.
My BYD isn't getting the DC power it claims to: is it a fault?
Not necessarily. High SoC, cold/hot battery, firmware, and available charging station power all affect the peak. Test with a 10-20% SoC and pre-conditioned battery.
Which wallbox should I choose for my BYD Dolphin/Seal?
Type-2 Wallbox 7.4 kW (single-phase) or 11 kW (three-phase) with load balancing and programming. Check compatibility with your setup's onboard charger.
🏁 Conclusions and useful links
To maximize the efficiency and life of your Blade Battery , use AC at home for routine use and DC only for travel, planning breaks between 10→60/70%. Learn more:
