China's ambitious push to expand its new energy vehicle (NEV) infrastructure is paying dividends during the May Day holiday, as millions of travelers embrace cleaner transportation options. With a record 13.7 million charging units now operational nationwide – a 47% annual increase – the country is demonstrating its commitment to sustainable mobility.
A Beijing NEV owner, Liu Jiangtao, exemplifies the changing experience: "The charging service is smart and convenient, with lounges making wait times comfortable." To manage holiday demand, operators deployed mobile charging vehicles along major routes like the Shengyang-Haikou Expressway, where staff maintained 24/7 readiness.
Technological breakthroughs are revolutionizing charging efficiency. The new 600kW liquid-cooled stations in Shenzhen's Dameisha district can add 500 km of range in 10 minutes – faster than sipping a coffee. Meanwhile, 160kW dual-gun chargers on the Rongcheng-Wuhai Expressway cut charging waits by 70%, as traveler Yang Xing attested: "30 minutes to full charge – game changer!"
With 98% of highway service areas now equipped with charging facilities, authorities are drafting plans for high-power stations to serve both private and commercial vehicles. "This infrastructure isn\'t just about convenience," noted China Electricity Council\'s Liu Yongdong. "It\'s about enabling China\'s green transition at scale."
