BYD F3DM Concept
BYD is a seasoned producer of lithium-ion batteries for cell phones and laptop computers, so applying the technology to its automotive side seems a natural progression.
CG Says... BYD is easily the most sophisticated, credible Chinese
automaker to display its wares in Detroit. A recent $250 million
investment in the company by Warren Buffet only reinforces that sense
of potential. Still, U.S. delivery of any BYD vehicle by 2011, much less one sporting
cutting-edge drivetrain technology, is improbable at best, pure hokum
at worst. Add at least five years to BYD's estimate to allow for
necessary safety upgrades and the establishment of a dealer network. |
The F3DM is actually on sale now in China, though only in limited quantity and not in U.S.-spec form.
Also displayed by BYD, and not yet on sale anywhere, are the extended range concept F6DM midsize sedan (middle) and E6 crossover (bottom).
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