Chinese automaker to sell plug-in hybrid vehicles next year

Shanghai. October 9 (Gasgoo.com) - BYD Auto Co., a subsidiary of the world's second largest rechargeable battery producer BYD Co., announced that the company is planning to sell rechargeable hybrid vehicles in China next year.

BYD will soon release its "knockout" product using dual-mode propulsion--combining both the battery system and hybrid system. The vehicle can switch between an on-board fuel engine and overhead electrical power depending on conditions.

Battery used to power a vehicle has very high demands in three major areas: cost, power capacity and safety. The upcoming BYD vehicles have made breakthroughs in all these areas.

In comparison with other automakers, BYD surely takes the lead. Japanese automaker Toyota, whose hybrid uses lithium-ion battery technology, said next generation Toyota hybrids won't arrive in early 2011 due to potential safety concerns. General Motors also noted that its Chevrolet Volt and related plug-in lithium-ion hybrid car are scheduled to hit market by 2010.

BYD entered the automotive industry in 2003. Recently the company is confirmed to attend the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January with its flagship sedans--Flyer, F3 and F6.