BYD and Daimler Partnership Results in Creation of Denza EV-Only Brand in China, New Concept Car [Beijing Auto Show]

Two years ago, Daimler and fledgling Chinese automaker BYD partnered up to create an electric vehicle for the Chinese market, and now the first fruit of that relationship has debuted. The unnamed concept car is badged as a Denza—a new brand drummed up by Daimler and BYD—and the EV made its debut at the 2012 Beijing auto show. Details surrounding the concept car are scarce, but we do know that it is painted blue, features LED lighting, and has a back seat that was designed to mimic a lounge. Oh, and that the aft "lounge" is accessible by rear-hinged suicide doors. BYD contributed its battery and electric-drive know-how to the project, while Daimler put forth its design, safety, and quality chops. Overall, the Denza's design appears original, if a bit anonymous. It is much more exciting, however, than BYD's E6 EV, which looks like the box this Denza shipped in. The new brand plans to put the production version of its electric concept on sale in China next year. Long-Term Test: 2011 Nissan Leaf SL First Drive: 2013 Honda Fit EV Photos and Info: BYD F3DM / F6DM / E6 from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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