China’s leading electric car maker BYD (Build Your Dreams) has released teaser images of its high-end off-road vehicle due to go on sale later this year. The automaker’s new product will be a global model, such as the BYD Atto 3, which will be sold under a new separate sub-brand within the company code-named F-Brand. BYD aims to take on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class when its new SUV hits the market.
The new BYD SUV will be available in pure electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions, with the EV model rumored to be around 500 kW (670 bhp) and the PHEV model to have a range of 1,200 kilometers (CLTC) . The new luxury off-road vehicle will combine BYD’s current DM-i and DM-p technologies. In terms of dimensions, the outgoing model is expected to be around 5,000mm long with a wheelbase of 2,850mm. The new SF (product code name) will make its world premiere next month at the Shanghai Auto Show in China, with a launch scheduled for later this year. The SUV will enter other global markets starting in 2024.
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Upcoming premium off-roader to be sold under new SUV-specific F branding (codename)
Other noteworthy features of BYD’s high-end electric off-road vehicle include four-wheel drive, torque vectoring between the rear wheels, a ladder-frame chassis, and front, center, and rear differential locks. EV and PHEV versions will come with an automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels.
Further details on the G-Class rival are scarce at the moment, and we’re expecting a big announcement at the Shanghai Auto Show. Expect the SUV to shine with technology, like all new-age EVs. What will remain to be seen is whether the company creates a new global sub-brand in markets outside of China under the BYD name for its upcoming SUV lineup or retail electric luxury off-roaders. The new product will also compete with Land Rover Defender, Jeep Wrangler and other models.
Also read: BYD Atto 3 first drive review: Expensive but promising electric SUV!
The upcoming premium electric off-roader is expected to deliver around 670 bhp, while the PHEV variant is expected to have a range of 1,200 km (CLTC)
As far as the Indian market is concerned, BYD has only recently entered the passenger car segment, retailing products mainly in the premium segment. The company has two electric products on sale – the e6 MPV and the Atto 3 compact SUV – the latter of which went on sale last year. The automaker has also launched the Seal luxury electric sedan, which will be available around the festive season and will be the brand’s new flagship in India.
First published date: March 11, 2023 at 13:36 PM CST
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