Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles (EPV) Business at BYD India has shared with our sister publication Autocar Professional that plug-in hybrid models are being actively considered for our market. In fact, if the current level of demand continues, we could see BYD’s plug-in hybrids on sale in India in the next two years.
- BYD India is currently doing a feasibility study for plug-in hybrids
- New Creta-rivalling electric SUV within Rs 20 lakh also on cards
Chauhan says the Indian market has been buzzing about hybrid vehicles over the last year and a half. If the acceptance level continues, BYD plans to introduce plug-in hybrid cars from its global portfolio in India.
“Plug-in hybrid is our strength; we are constantly evaluating the option. We want to study for another 6-8 months. If the momentum for hybrids continue, we will offer a plug-in hybrid model at an affordable price,” he assured.
BYD’s homegrown rival Shanghai Automotive’s Indian subsidiary, JSW MG Motor India, has also announced plans to introduce locally produced, competitively priced plug-in as well as strong-hybrid vehicles.
The strategic direction JSW MG Motor India adopted is right up the alley of BYD India and its model portfolio for the future. Parth Jindal, the director of JSW MG Motor India, has already declared that the company will aim to sell 1 million electrified vehicles by the end of this decade and will look to lead the new energy vehicle portfolio in the world’s third-largest passenger vehicle market.
In addition to battery electric vehicles (BEV), plug-in hybrids also constitute a significant portion of BYD's global sales. Of the total sales of about 3 million units in the last calendar year, about 1.7 million were plug-in hybrids.
BYD India’s passenger vehicle portfolio in India currently has EVs only. The brand sells the Atto 3 SUV and the Seal sedan. The e6 MPV has been recently discontinued and will be replaced by the eMax 7 on October 8. Apart from these, BYD is also considering an all-new electric SUV that will take on the upcoming Creta EV.
Also See:
BYD eMax 7 to come with three rows of seating
BYD Seal facelift gets new interior, faster charging
