Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD debuted an aggressive-looking electric car concept, the Ocean-M, at the Beijing Auto Show on April 25. Before the unveiling, the company previewed the Ocean-M to stimulate interest.
BYD debuts Ocean-M at the Beijing Auto Show
BYD formally introduced the new Ocean-M electric hot hatch concept during its presentation today at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show.
As you can see, the electric car concept seems larger than the popular BYD Dolphin. It features a carbon-fiber rear spoiler and diffuser, given that it is a high-performance version.
It sports a bright orange body paint with black wheels and a roof. It also has an enticing big wing mounted on the hatch.
The company built the Ocean-M concept using its new dedicated electric-car architecture. It apparently features the second-gen ‘Blade’ battery technology BYD recently announced.
According to BYD, the new Blade battery is a “cell-to-body” unit that mounts the cells directly into the car. It becomes part of the overall structure rather than being packed intro clusters called “modules.” In effect, it reduces weight and complexity.
Intensified EV rollout
BYD has intensified its electric vehicle rollout as it seeks to regain the top-selling crown from Tesla.
It recently launched the low-cost Dolphin and Seagull EVs, with updated versions starting at only $13,900 (99,800 yuan) and $9,700 (69,800 yuan), respectively.
BYD’s affordable pricing is part of its strategy to undercut ICE-powered vehicle prices, even initiating a “liberation battle” earlier this year.
The Chinese company is also rolling out new premium EVs under its luxury brands, along with mid-size models and electric supercars.
Market Launch and Pricing
A BYD executive announced at the Beijing Auto Show that the company plans to launch Ocean-M’s production model in Chinese showrooms between July and September 2024.
It is expected to hit a price range of 150,000 yuan ($AU32,000) to 200,000 yuan ($AU42,500) on BYD’s home turf.
Ocean-M’s production model is expected to hit Chinese showrooms in late 2024 at a base price of about $50,000.
We can expect more information about the 2024 BYD Ocean-M near its showroom launch later this year. The 2024 Beijing Auto Show started today and will continue until May 4.
