E-Vali not ruled out, but PHEVs to lead BYD van plan

BYD's UK MD urges road transport sector to transition, with vans ‘the next step’

BYD has vowed to remain focused on its push to offer battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vans, but it is not ruling out the possibility of introducing a hydrogen-powered model to the market. Speaking to Automotive Management at the IAA Transportation 2022 show in Hannover, Germany, BYD UK managing director is enthusiastic about the prospects for the Chinese brand. He said the road transport sector needs to take a big leap forward in transitioning to zero-emission mobility. He added that vans will be the next area of major growth for electrified vehicles. He cautioned that the uptake of electric vans will take time due to infrastructure and cost restraints.

PHEVs 'an important step'

Highlighting the importance of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) as a stepping stone to pure electric, he said: "PHEVs are an important step because the technology is mature. It's proven, it works and it helps to create the infrastructure for electric-only commercial vehicles in the future. It provides certainty, as businesses can implement range-extending technology without the worry of range anxiety. At the same time, it helps to educate drivers about the benefits of zero-emission driving."