TMEVnet participates in VivaTech 2025

Challenging the core “cooling method” of ultra-fast charging… shaking the fast-charging standard with “liquid evaporation–phase change” technology

At VivaTech 2025 in Paris, a quiet disruption emerged in the EV charging sector. Ultra-fast charging cable startup TMEVnet made a breakthrough in charging technology paradigms. As BYD’s “5-minute full charge” stirred the market, TMEVnet asserted its presence, claiming it can make solutions “lighter, faster, and smaller.”

Breaking the limits of refrigeration-based systems with liquid evaporation–phase change technology

“Most current technologies work by cooling liquid like in a refrigerator and circulating it through cables. The problem is that the liquid heats up quickly, forcing the refrigeration system to grow larger.”

CEO Hyoungnam Cho pointed out the structural limitations of conventional air- and liquid-cooled systems. Existing methods, led by major global corporations, rely on circulating coolant, making them difficult for startups to enter. However, they inherently face challenges such as larger cooling systems and heavier cables in high-speed charging.

In contrast, TMEVnet applies liquid evaporation–phase change technology to create a cooling zone maintained at -40°C within both the cooling unit and the cable. This enables ultra-fast charging with significantly less conductor material while dramatically reducing the weight of cables and charging guns.

“BYD introduced 5-minute charging, but it combines two charging cables into one system. In reality, megawatt-level cables for commercial vehicles can require three adults to lift. We can reduce that to a level manageable by a single person.”

“From shipyards to EVs… a shift in technological narrative”

CEO Cho’s background in shipyards, where he addressed heat issues in welding equipment, laid the foundation for this innovation. “In shipbuilding, massive power is used to melt thick steel plates, and managing heat is always critical.” This experience evolved into today’s ultra-fast charging technology.

A key differentiator is the focus on connector contact points, where heat is most concentrated. TMEVnet developed its own power terminal material with 80% higher conductivity than brass while maintaining structural stability, and enhances cooling efficiency by directly flowing coolant through these points. The technology has already been patented domestically and internationally.

“5-minute charging becomes reality, drawing attention from Europe’s major players”

TMEVnet is currently testing 700 kW systems in the European market and has completed development of 1,000 kW systems. At VivaTech, European automakers and energy companies visited the booth, accelerating discussions on proof-of-concept (PoC).

“Interest in our technology increased further during the exhibition due to the spotlight on BYD’s fast-charging technology,” Cho added.

The company is preparing PoC with Mercedes-Benz in Germany and plans to begin PoC with a domestic automaker in July. It also aims to expand into sectors such as urban air mobility (UAM), electric ships, and heavy-duty electric trucks.

“Making heavy standards lighter… redefining the rules of the game”

EV charging technology is entering the era of megawatt-level ultra-fast charging based on the CCS standard. However, such high power inevitably brings heavier connectors and cooling systems. TMEVnet addresses these challenges directly, offering solutions that overcome physical limitations—making even heavy systems manageable.

Beyond performance improvements, the company is realizing “innovation on top of standards” through practical technology. It has also secured up to KRW 1.5 billion in R&D funding through the Deep-Tech TIPS program and is accelerating global expansion through partnerships with strategic investors like KingoSpring.

Ultimately, TMEVnet is introducing a new benchmark: “lightweight 5-minute charging.” What began in shipyards is now reshaping electrification infrastructure across EVs, ships, and UAM. The next-generation standard is no longer exclusive to large corporations—focused, technology-driven startups are redefining the industry.