BYD (Build Your Dreams) from China is one of the largest electric vehicle manufacturers in the world. So far, the business has focused on the Asian region, now the company is preparing the first steps to conquer the European market. In the beginning, the focus will be on the local electric car Mecca Norway, where a new BYD battery SUV will soon be available, among other things.
BYD has been selling electric buses and coaches in Germany for a long time. The Chinese announced a test sale of passenger cars in Europe in early May. In the long term, expansion with new light e-commercial vehicles and electric trucks is also planned. The first sales of electric cars started with the second generation of the “Tang EV600” model. The battery-powered SUV will initially be introduced in Norway.
The 4.87 meter long Tang is available with different engine variants as a plug-in hybrid, as an electric car or as a vehicle with a classic combustion system. According to BYD, the partially electric plug-in version of the Tang is one of the best-selling models of its kind in the world. In the fully electric version, the all-wheel drive can do 520 kilometers with one charge in accordance with the NEDC standard, which is due to expire in Europe.
BYD said it plans to further expand its Stromer offering after the Tang EV600 was launched. The company also plans to introduce various other battery-powered commercial vehicles. Among other things, a panel van, 7.5 and 19-ton distribution trucks and a semi-trailer truck with electric drive are to come to Europe.
“The Norwegian market is the most obvious choice for our test run as we strive to expand our presence in Europe. Norway is the most advanced market in Europe for broad acceptance and use of electric vehicles, ”said Isbrand Ho from BYD Europe. Norway also already offers a comprehensive charging infrastructure.
BYD has not yet given specific information on the prices and availability of the Tang EV600 and the other electric vehicles in Germany and other European countries. Ho said with regard to Norway: “We will see how the market works. In the longer term, our goal is to sell cars beyond Norway. ”
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