The exact timeline we don’t know, not yet at least. But the omens are here already with the Chinese market slowing down and the Chinese EV industry reaping the fruit of early investments, massive economies of scale, and near total control over battery supply chains. After probing the waters in Southeast Asia, China’s EV industry seems to have chosen 2024 as the year to commence a serious offensive all over the world.
The 38-kWh version is revolutionary in and by itself: it’s the first time a city-car boasts significant range . Up until today, city-cars with 31 kWh batteries at most had been the norm in Latin America, useful for the city and around it, but unable to reliably handle anything much longer than 220 km on a road trip.
Here in Colombia, we’re still waiting for the BYD Dolphin Mini, but since pricing has been consistent all over Latin America, I expect no surprises.the motorcycle company that chose to bet everything on EVs I’m not sure why Auteco is not bringing this as an option for the general market: they may be scared it will cannibalize every other model because it is insanely cheaper. As an example, the comparable JAC EJ7 may be much sexier but boasts similar specs and costs a staggering 50% more: $40,450.
The car is to be produced in BYD’s new plant in Brazil , but for now, it will come from China at a price of BRL $115,800 for the 38 kWh version. Though, those who reserve early can get a BRL $10,000 discount. This price includes taxes and a type 2 charger that comes with the car. I was once of the thought that as soon as price parity was achieved, the game would already be over for ICEVs, and we would move to 100% BEVs in a matter of weeks. I now question that premise, for the most successful market in the region is already very close to price parity, and yet EV sales, though booming, are still under 20% of total vehicle sales in the country.