Chinese electric car maker BYD is planning to enter the US market in the first quarter of 2012, starting with the launch of its e6 electric car model.
The firm, which is financial backed by Warren Buffet, revealed the plans at the opening of the Detroit Motor Show this week.
According to news agency, Reuters, the firm’s chairman, Wang Chuanfu said: "The United States offers a huge opportunity for new-energy vehicles, especially pure electric.”
Adding: "Our strategy in the U.S. market will probably focus on the pure electric segment," he said.
Its the fourth time the Chinese car manufacturer has attended the show, formally known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Best known for its innovative electric models and alternative power solutions, BYD will follow the launch of the e6 with the S6DM and eventually electric bus models.
It has already sold several hundred e6 electric cars in China, mostly to government bodies but will face stiff competition in 2012 when larger car makers including Ford and Toyota launch electric models in 2012.
According to Reuters the company which last year sealed a partnership with Daimler AG to develop electric cars for the Chinese market, is also talking with a number of global car companies over a deal to supply batteries for electric cars.
More info: http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE70A1EC20110111
