Mercedes-BYD to launch Chinese-market EV based on outgoing B-Class

http://ee2020.wordpress.com/2010/08/10/report-mercedes-byd-to-launch-chinese-market-ev-based-on-outgoing-b-class/
Report: Mercedes-BYD to launch Chinese-market EV based on outgoing B-Class
Posted on august 10, 2010 by jarmotuisk

Mercedes-Benz B-Class – Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Autocar, company insiders at Mercedes-Benz have disclosed some potentially revealing information about the company’s electric car joint venture (JV) with China’s BYD Auto. The report suggests Mercedes will utilize a slightly modified version of the company’s outgoing B-Class front-wheel drive platform for the electric vehicle. Mercedes will take advantage of the flat-floor layout of its B-Class to house the electrified version’s lithium-ion battery pack in an underfloor position. Mercedes had initially designed the outgoing B-Class with electric intentions in mind and, as such, the platform should be well-suited for battery-powered motivation.

The zero-emissions hatchback will feature its own unique exterior styling and interior design but, unfortunately for us, it’s a Chinese-market only offering. We know Mercedes and BYD will eventually decide upon and announce a new brand for its range of electric vehicles produced under the JV, but marketing and selling this car is years away – or maybe more.

AutoblogGreen

=> Report: Mercedes-BYD to launch Chinese-market EV based on outgoing B-Class.
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