A leading Chinese firm has engineered the Flash 20 PCR test machine, providing accurate COVID-19 results in just 30 minutes. Deployed by national health authorities and airports, it's poised for European markets.
In China, PCR tests for COVID-19 now yield results in a record 30 minutes. As reported by Channel News Asia on September 29, 2020, the Flash 20 was developed by Coyote. Founder Sabrina Li describes it as the world's fastest PCR machine for detecting SARS-CoV-2.
Priced at 300,000 yuan—< strong>around €38,000—the Flash 20 is designed for ease of use. Non-specialized staff can operate it for routine screenings, with results sent directly to patients' smartphones. Handling up to four samples simultaneously, it streamlines PCR testing, the gold standard for accuracy that's often hindered by complexity and delays.
China attributes outbreak control to widespread testing, quarantines, masks, and data-driven tracing. Between February and July 2020, authorities ran 500,000 tests, with Flash 20 matching conventional PCR in 97% of cases.
Certified by Chinese regulators, the system has gained approval from the EU and Australia. Coyote pursues US and WHO clearance for worldwide use. The UK has acquired two units, and French health authorities are in talks.
For context, the US rolled out 150 million rapid tests (15-30 minutes) resembling pregnancy kits, but these are less sensitive than PCR.
