BYD Auto to begin sales of e6 EV in U.S.

Chinese automaker BYD Auto has announced its plan to enter the U.S. market in 2011 and will be launching a product line of plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles. The first two models BYD plans on introducing are the F3DM, the world’s first mass-produced plug-in hybrid sedan and the e6, a battery-powered mid-sized crossover with a single-charge range of 250 miles (400 km). Speaking on the floor of the Detroit auto show, Wang Chuanfu, president and chairman of BYD Auto, said that the company would also be setting up manufacturing in the U.S. “when it is appropriate”. BYD claims its Fe battery technology has a quick-charge capacity to 50% power in only 10 minutes. The battery also has a life cycle of more than 10 years. (January 13, 2010)