Having launched the Atto 3 in Australia last year, BYD is swiftly expanding its line-up of global passenger cars and its F models look to make a big impact.
BYD is taking aim at the Mercedes-Benz G-Class with a new hardcore off-roader set to be launched in China this year and in global markets from 2024.
Depicted in prototype form in a video released online, the five-seat SUV is the first in the Chinese firm’s new F model line, which is planned to expand to include other SUVs and pick-up trucks in the future.
Details of the off-roader, which goes under the internal codename SF, remain scarce ahead of its expected unveiling at the 2023 Shanghai motor show in April, although BYD officials said it measures close to 5000mm in length and rides on wheelbase put at 2850mm.
BYD said the SF will be powered by a new petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain with a Mercedes-Benz G63-beating 500kW. The combined range is put at “more than 1200km”.
Drive is transferred via an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive with fully variable apportioning of power between the front and rear axles, as well as torque-vectoring functionality between the rear wheels.
Based on a ladder-frame chassis, the SF is also confirmed to receive front, centre and rear differential locks.
The SF is the second hardcore off-roader confirmed by BYD in recent months. In January, the Shenzhen-based firm announced plans for the new Yangwang brand and its U8 – a luxurious electric rival to the upcoming electric G-Class, the EQG.
BYD officials said the F model line will be positioned between the Denza and Yangwang brands with prices ranging between ¥400,000 and ¥600,000 (AUD$87,150 and $130,700) in China.
At this stage, there’s no word on whether BYD plans to sell its new F models in Australia.