BYD, a Chinese automaker, has reintroduced its all-electric e2 vehicle with a new design and upgraded features. Initially launched in 2019 as a purpose-built taxi vehicle, the e2 unexpectedly gained immense popularity, selling over 72,000 units in just two years. Now, the new and improved e2 is part of the Ocean family, built on the e-platform 3.0.
The latest e2 model has grown to be 4.26 meters long, with a completely new interior design that is more in line with other BYD vehicles. The 12.8-inch touchscreen display can rotate from horizontal to vertical orientation for added convenience, and the car supports both NFC and Bluetooth keys, enabling users to lock and unlock the car with their phones.
The vehicle comes with only one powertrain option, a 43.2 kWh LFP battery pack combined with a 95-hp electric motor. Although the car is not built for speed, it is capable of transporting a small family around town. The vehicle has a CLTC-rated range of 405 km, which is sufficient for a weekend getaway.
The e2 starts at RMB 102,800 ($14,950) for the basic model and RMB 109,800 ($15,950) for the higher-end model, which features a larger rotating screen and a heat pump. The car comes with a lifetime warranty for the powertrain and a free 5G internet connection for two years. The e2 will fit between the BYD Dolphin and Seagull models in the lineup.
While Tesla is still promising a sub-$25,000 electric car and Chevrolet is selling Bolt EV and EUV models for $20,000, China has shown that it is capable of producing a family-sized hatchback for less than $15,000. Although the e2 may not be fast or luxurious, it is a practical and affordable option that can accommodate five passengers and comes with essential features required for electric cars to become more accessible to people.
