Shell has introduced the Triple 10 Challenge concept car, a proof-of-concept battery electric vehicle (EV) designed to demonstrate how advanced thermal management technology can improve charging speed, energy efficiency, and lifecycle sustainability.
The compact EV aims to achieve three key targets: charging from 10% to 80% in under 10 minutes, delivering 10 kilometers per kilowatt-hour (km/kWh) efficiency, and achieving a lifecycle carbon footprint of about 10 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e).
Unlike conventional EV cooling systems that rely on water-glycol solutions, the vehicle uses Shell Recharge thermal fluid, a dielectric fluid technology that enables direct immersion cooling of battery cells, motors, and power electronics. This approach helps manage heat more efficiently, allowing faster charging while reducing system weight and complexity.
Shell said the vehicle achieved an 80% battery charge in 9 minutes and 54 seconds using a standard 175kW charger, adding up to 24 kilometers of range per minute—nearly 90% more range added per minute compared with typical battery electric vehicles using the same charger.
The Triple 10 Challenge concept car also features a smaller and more efficient battery pack design, lightweight materials, and recyclable components. Shell estimates the vehicle could deliver around a 50% reduction in lifecycle emissions compared with typical EVs in the European market, while its simplified battery architecture may reduce pack costs by approximately 25%.
Developed with engineering partners including RML, Empel Systems, and HORIBA MIRA, the concept vehicle showcases how immersive thermal management could support future mass-market EV development without relying solely on larger batteries.
Shell also announced the integration of its electric vehicle offerings under Shell Recharge, combining charging solutions, thermal fluids, and battery technologies into a unified EV platform for business and consumer customers.
