European BYD Auto’s debut is going to be on the closest Geneva Motor Show. We already know, that Chinese company is going to present at least three models, among which one is with hybrid drive. The most controversial car will be F1, belonged to mini segment. The car is similar to “triplets” from Kolin, and it is highly possible, that PSA and Toyota will try to block the show, just as Chrysler stopped the presentation of Chinese Smart (Bubble) in Frankfurt.

BYD F1 has its official debut in the end of 2007, during Guangzhou motor show, where the car maker presented the new logo as well, changing the controversial sign a’la BMW. Few days ago the producer unveiled also specification of F1 and interior’s picture, which are not necessary to comment. Dimensions of the car are following: 3460x1618x1465. In comparison – Toyota Aygo is shorter by 50 mm and tighter by 3 mm. Height and wheelbase (2,340 mm) are the same. Engine parameters are similar as well, even though Chinese didn’t use VVT system. The new engine (BYD371QA) has 988 cm3 of capacity, three cylinders and 12V with two camshafts (DOHC). The maximum power is 68hp and 6,000 rev/hour. The car equipped like that, with 870 kg of weight, has the top speed of 151 km/h. The car maker is promising, that BYD F1 will be one of the cheapest vehicle around the world, and the price on local market will not be higher than 3,000 USD.

The next controversial car, which has been on the local market for nearly one year, will be compact F3-R. The car’s design is similar to Chevrolet Lacetti, but its interior is identical as in Corolla 9th generation. The car in the strongest specification will be driven by Mitsubishi 1.5L engine with Delphi fuel injection; system. Wheelbase is identical as in Toyota as well (2,600 mm), and the rest of dimensions: length 4,325 mm, width 1,460 mm, height 1,490 mm.

The most advanced car from China show on Geneva motor show will be hybrid F6 model, signed as F6DM.

Portuguese dealer’s group - Hipogest has signed and agreement with BYD Auto, receiving rights for distributing imported cars in Portugal and Angola (south – west Africa). Sale in both countries will start in breakthrough of 2008 and 2009, through 30 licensed dealers. BYD Auto belongs to BYD Corp., the top producer of accumulators on the global market.

Source: Byd Auto