BYD's S6DM SUV to be delayed until 2013

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai November 3) - BYD's upcoming plug-in style hybrid SUV, the S6DM, will not be coming to market until 2013, the Beijing Times reported today. During the SUV's unveiling at this year's North American International Auto Show, BYD initially stated that American sales would begin next year.

According to the manufacturer, the S6DM (pictured) will be the world's first independent all-wheel drive 'dual mode' electric SUV. It comes equipped with a traditional fuel-powered 2.0 L four-valve engine, an electric motor and a lithium iron phosphate ion battery pack, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

When set in pure electric mode, the S6DM can be driven for 60 km continuously. When driven with both motors on, the S6DM can be driven for a total distance of 310 km.