Coming soon to an "outlet" near you?
China’s fourth largest automaker unveiled an all electric vehicle at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit today.
BYD claimed it plans to launch the “e6” in the United States later in 2010.
The e6 is a pure electric vehicle in a conventional small minivan wrapper with seating for five.
The design and quality are better than the BYD hybrid shown two years ago in Detroit.
The company, a multi-national giant in the production of lithium ion cell phone batteries, made several product claims at a press conference, which imply that its Fe version of the e6 battery — essentially a change in chemistry that separates it from other types of lithium ion or nickel batteries used in EVs — could be a breakthrough.
However, such Chinese product claims are met with skepticism by auto industry engineers.
BYD claims its Fe battery will power the e6 with an estimated acceleration time from zero-to-60 mph in less than 14 seconds, and with a projected top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h). Electric vehicle batteries must have high energy density and – given current costs of about $1,000 per kilowatt-hour of storage for lithium ion batteries, we estimate battery cost of the claimed 205-mile range at $40,000.
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| BYD e6 Specifications | |
| Length | 4554mm (179.3in ) |
| Width | 1822mm (71.7in ) |
| Height | 1630mm (64.2in ) |
| Wheelbase | 2830mm (111.4in ) |
| Track | 1556mm/1558mm (61in/61in ) |
| Curb weight | 2295kg (5060lbs) |
| Capacity | 5 seats |
| Gradeability | ≥30% |
| Maximum speed | 140km/h (87mph ) |
| 0-60mph | Less than 14 seconds |
| Front motor power/torque | 75kw/450Nm (101hp/332lb-ft) |
| Rear motor power/torque | N/A |
| Combined power/torque | N/A |
| Type | Permanent-magnet type synchronous motor |
| Power management system | Intelligent central management system |
| Power outlet | DC380/100A |
| Range (Cruising mode) | 330km (205 miles ) |