BYD Co. Ltd., one of the most widely-watched emerging Chinese automakers, plans to unveil two advanced technology vehicles at the Detroit auto show next month: An all-electric 2012 E6 crossover, and a S6DM hybrid.
BYD, a Shenzhen-based battery maker that branched out into the auto business, said Saturday that it also will display solar panels, home energy storage units and other environmentally friendly products and technologies.
The BYD E6 Premier, equipped with an iron-phosphate FE battery, has a 300-km range on city roads and a top speed of 140 km per hour. It takes 40 minutes to fully charge the E6 using a 100-kilowatt fast-charger and six hours on a standard outlet.
BYD s S6DM SUV can travel 60 km on electric power alone and more than 500 km when engaging a 2-liter gas engine. A 10-kilowatt electric motor is paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission propelling the front wheels, while a powerful 75-kilowatt electric motor powers the rear wheels.
BYD will also display the F3DM hybrid, featuring a solar panel sunroof to help charge the iron-phosphate battery, and an all-electric K9 e-Bus with in-wheel electric drive. It can travel 250 km on a single charge.
BYD s participation at the 2011 North American International Auto Show will mark its fourth consecutive year at the show.
BYD s first plug-in car, the F3DM, has arrived in California where it will be used in a pilot project by the Los Angeles Housing Authority. The F3DM has 100 km of electric range and 500 km of gasoline range, and in a unique feature, drivers can specify whether the gas engine assists the electric motor.
(SD-Agencies)
