Daimler and Chinese manufacturer BYD have launched a new China-only electric vehicle at the Beijing Motor Show. The car, called the Denza, was developed in a joint venture partnership between the two companies.
Designed, engineered and produced in China, the car is set to cost around £35,700, or £24,000 after grants from the Chinese government.
The Denza's electric motor delivers 115bhp and 214lb ft of torque, with a claimed top speed of 93mph and a range of 186 miles. Energy is stored by a 47.5kWh battery pack mounted in the floor of the vehicle.
Daimler and BYD say they have put the Denza through 18 months of rigorous testing, covering nearly 750,000 miles. The car is also the first electric vehicle to be put through new C-NCAP safety tests where it achieved the maximum five star rating. Reports suggest the model sits on the same platform as the previous-generation Mercedes Mercedes-Benz B-Class.
Two trim levels will be offered on the model. Lifestyle trim gets leather seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and a central infotainment screen, while Executive specification adds an upgraded sound system, adaptive xenon headlights and satellite navigation. Deliveries are expected to begin in China in September.
Mike Vousden
