BYD's Fang Cheng Bao Formula S deliveries begin in China, 9-minute charging claimed
Deliveries of the electric liftback, launched on September 16, have begun in China, with prices from 1,89,900 to 2,29,900 yuan.
Chinese carmaker BYD is continuing to set new records in the global electric vehicle market. Deliveries of the much-awaited electric liftback Formula S from its sub-brand Fang Cheng Bao have now begun in China. The car was launched on September 16, so vehicles have started reaching customers within days. Its features have drawn considerable attention in the automobile world.
In the Chinese market, the car is priced between 1,89,900 yuan and 2,29,900 yuan, roughly Rs 27.15 lakh to Rs 32.88 lakh. It is likely to be sold in international markets under the Denza brand.
The Formula S is sporty and eye-catching in design. It is 5,060 mm long, 1,967 mm wide and 1,483 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,960 mm. At the front it has teardrop-shaped headlamps, active air intakes and semi-hidden door handles. A LiDAR sensor on the roof is provided for safety, and a sporty rear diffuser gives the car a more modern, aggressive look.
The car will be available with different battery and motor options. All use an LFP battery pack. The standard variant has a 76.744 kWh battery that produces 329 hp. Its CLTC range is about 720 km.
The long-range variant has a larger 92.093 kWh battery and a 402 hp electric motor. It offers a range of 830 km to 900 km. For those who want more speed and power, there is an AWD variant, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive model that generates 657 hp.
The car's biggest feature is its flash charging technology. According to the company's claim, the battery can charge from 10 per cent to 97 per cent in just 9 minutes, so long journeys would not require stopping for hours to charge. However, the actual charging time may depend on local infrastructure and conditions.
The cabin is premium and luxurious. The dashboard has a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital LCD instrument cluster and a head-up display (HUD). The car also gets the 'DiPilot 300' assisted autonomous driving system, electromagnetic suspension and very comfortable 'zero-gravity' seats for the front passenger.
