BYD Automobile has introduced two new models at the Shanghai motor show.
The automaker was set up in early 2003 when a mobile phone battery maker acquired 77% of the shares in vehicle manufacturer Xi’an Qinchuan. That company started producing cars in the mid-1980s and held a licence to produce the Suzuki Alto sold under the name Qinchuan (QCJ 7080). The company introduced its first self-developed model, called the Flyer (QCJ 7081B) in 2001 and, according to the company, is now ranked amongst the top 10 brands in China.
Byd launched a production version of the F6, a luxury car first shown as a concept two years ago. It is powered by a self-developed two-litre engine with manual gearbox or a Mitsubishi 2.4-litre MIVEC engine. Standard equipment includes electric windows and electrically adjustable seats, dashboard with white-background LED instrument panel and ABS.
Byd also launched a hatchback version of the F3 sedan called F3-R. It is promoted as a value for money car with a high level of equipment.
Power comes from a 1.5-liter Mitsubishi engine with Delphi fuel injection and variable valve timing.
Byd says it hopes to produce 500,000 cars by 2009.
