Daimler, BYD collaborating on Chinese EV for 2013

A concept will be unveiled at Auto China 2012 in Beijing next April ahead of the production model’s launch in 2013.

Developed under the Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology (BDNT) joint venture, the concept will reveal an all-new brand name, logo, identity, interior and exterior design language, and give an indication of the vehicle’s position in the market.

BDNT says production of the new small/medium EV will be overseen by Daimler’s quality management experts and says the vehicle will comply with the German manufacturer’s philosophy of high-quality cars.

Daimler will be responsible for the electric vehicle architecture and safety components while BYD will contribute its battery technology and electric drive system expertise.

BDNT says it is making good progress on the new compact EV and says the first prototypes will be on the road within six months.

The vehicle will initially launch in China where Daimler and BYD expect it to accelerate the growth of electric mobility. It is not yet confirmed for any other markets.