Just the Facts:

* The M6 is expected to compete head to head with the Buick GL8 and the Honda Odyssey.
* Pricing on the minivan is expected to range from $20,900-$36,000.
* The seven-passenger van is offered with a choice of 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines.

BEIJING — BYD Auto has officially launched its M6 minivan in China, where it will compete head to head with such popular models as the Buick GL8 and the Honda Odyssey.

The M6, widely criticized in the Chinese media for being a near clone of the Toyota Previa, will undercut the prices of its two leading competitors. BYD said M6 prices will start at just under $21,000 and will range up to $36,000. Both the Buick and the Honda start at more than $32,000.

The automaker, which has focused much of its energy and resources on the development of batteries and hybrid vehicles, held its official launch ceremony in Beijing. The program was attended by Warren Buffett, whose Berkshire Hathaway holds a stake of nearly 10 percent in BYD's parent company.

The seven-passenger M6 is being offered with a choice of 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engines, as well as such features as a navigation system, remote keyless entry, DVD multimedia system and dual-zone automatic climate control.

All Rights Reserved. Do not reproduce, copy and use the editorial content without permission. Contact us: autonews@gasgoo.com.