Category: General

We finally have the specs for the European version of the BYD Seal.

 

Let’s see the press release.

 

• Appealing, dynamic, sporty, technologically advanced full-electric D-segment sedan
• Available with a highly efficient Blade Battery – 82 kWh with up to 570km range (WLTP) and DC Charging (30-80%) up to 150 kW in just 26 minutes
• Available in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations
• Advanced Cell-to-Body technology and BYD e-Platform 3.0 for greater efficiency, aerodynamics, power, body rigidity and space utilisation
• The BYD SEAL will be available around August / September

Athletic, sporty, and dynamic, but also intelligent, and equipped with a high-tech DNA, the new BYD SEAL has the looks, power, and intelligence to impress European drivers. The BYD SEAL will be available around August / September.

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and power batteries, presents the BYD SEAL as a sporty, high-tech vehicle, but SEAL is much more. Like the BYD DOLPHIN, the BYD SEAL is part of the BYD Ocean series. It features an Ocean Aesthetics design concept resulting in a dynamic, stylish, and highly recognisable visual symbol. The BYD SEAL demonstrates power and athleticism with a drag coefficient of just 0.219 Cd. The low-to-the-ground body style slices like a razor blade through the wind. Its sleek nature-inspired design is emotionally rich, high-tech, and appealing. SEAL is not only dynamic, intelligent, and sporty but also a versatile full-electric four-door sedan that comfortably seats five people and has a large boot space of 402 litres and a 53-litre frunk in the front end of the car to store goods.

 

Advanced Cell-to-Body Technology

BYD SEAL is the first vehicle to implement the Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology, which fully integrates the BYD Blade Battery into the entire vehicle structure and enhances the vehicle’s safety. It is inspired by the high-strength honeycomb aluminium panel structure.

The CTB technology integrates the battery pack’s top cover with the traditional body floor structure, forming a sandwich structure of the top cover, the BYD Blade Battery and the tray. The power battery system volume utilisation is increased by 66%, and the system energy density is increased by 10%.

The CTB battery system serves as a source of energy and as a structural component. The SEAL has a torsional stiffness of 40,500N.m/degree, increasing handling limits and offering an excellent platform for the car’s comfort, safety, and performance.

CTB technology also improves space efficiency. SEAL has a 10mm lower body height with the same clear height inside the vehicle as the conventional structure, resulting in a more low-slung shape and improved aerodynamic performance and visual impact.

iTAC (Intelligent Torque Control Technology)

The new iTAC (Intelligent Torque Control Technology) has superseded the old method of restoring vehicle dynamics by only lowering power output with various control methods such as torque shift, appropriate torque reduction, or negative torque output.

Due to the increased recognition speed and change in adjustment methods, iTAC can integrate the vehicle’s own state as well as the driver’s horizontal and vertical control needs, and advance power distribution and adjustment, fully utilising the vehicle’s power potential, improving safety performance and driving comfort, and widening the handling limits.

Mighty power unit

BYD SEAL features an 8-in-1 electric drivetrain with an efficient electric motor that delivers 230 kW (313 PS) on the rear-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel drive configuration features an 8-in-1 and a 3-in-1 electric drivetrain that sends 160 kW to the front wheels and 230 kW to the back wheels for a maximum combined motor power output of 390 kW (530 PS).

BYD SEAL AWD has semi-active suspension technology with variable frequency dampers for ultimate responsiveness. When the road conditions are smooth, the damping is relatively high, allowing for more stable vehicle dynamics and better handling. When there are potholes or rough surfaces, the damping automatically reduces to absorb the impact of the road better, assuring a high-quality ride.

Like all BYD passenger vehicles, BYD SEAL also benefits from the Cobalt Free Lithium Iron-Phosphate (LFP) BYD Blade Battery, which not only ensures safety, durability, and performance but also provides more interior space for the driver and passengers.

BYD SEAL will be offered in Europe in two trim levels, one with an 82 kWh rear-wheel drive drivetrain and the other with an 80 kWh all-wheel drive drivetrain, with WLTP-ranges ranging from 520 km to 570 km for the all-wheel drive variant.

Four driving modes

The BYD SEAL offers four distinct driving modes, catering to a variety of driving preferences and conditions. These modes include:

• ECO mode, which prioritizes energy efficiency and extends the driving range;
• Normal mode, providing a balanced driving experience for everyday use;
• Sport mode, emphasizing performance through aggressive acceleration and sharper handling;
• Snow mode, designed to enhance traction and stability on slippery surfaces like snow or ice.

Each mode is tailored to deliver an optimized and customized driving experience, ensuring both comfort and safety for the driver.

High Power Charging

BYD SEAL uses a high-voltage electric drive boost charging solution, which allows for faster charging and significantly reduces the waiting time for users to charge. The technology is developed based on the electric drive assembly, charging and distribution assembly and innovatively uses the motor inductor to replace the boost inductor in the original boost solution to meet the 420-750V voltage range of charging piles with high power DC charging.

As the system is highly integrated, the two modes of motor charging and driving are multiplexed, and during the charging process, SEAL reduces the heat generation of the charging and distribution assembly for more reliable performance. The high-voltage electric drive boost charging solution can make full use of the national charging standard current limit to achieve a wide band of constant power charging. The charging power is 11 kW AC 3 phase. With a 150 kW DC charger, the battery can be replenished from 30% to 80 % in just 26 minutes. The maximum charging peak is 150 kW.

Wide temperature ranges high-efficiency heat pump system

BYD SEAL comes standard with a wide temperature range high-efficiency heat pump system, which allows for efficient regulation of the battery pack temperature via direct cooling and direct heating of the refrigerant, as well as control of the passenger compartment temperature with low energy consumption. The heat pump device can also absorb waste heat from the electric powertrain and work in temperatures ranging from -30°C to 60°C.

BYD SEAL supports V2L, allowing the car to be used as a portable power supply for electrical devices (total output up to 3kW).

Learning from nature

BYD SEAL has been created by a design team led by Wolfgang Egger, BYD’s Global Design Director. The design team followed the principle of learning from nature and sought inspiration from the vast ocean to create an emotionally rich, recognisable and appealing design. The “Ocean Aesthetic” design concept has evolved, with the vehicle adopting a more dynamic, richer, and sportier aesthetic.

The car’s front end has a powerful sense of forward motion, with an “X-shape” in the dynamic perspective. The front of the BYD SEAL has the look and feel of a sports car, with its full, sculpted, captivating curves providing the sense of the momentum of waves.

Sleek silhouette

BYD SEAL’s body lines are sleek and athletic. Its side silhouette is smooth and natural, with a low front, sloping A-pillar, rounded roof, sloping fastback, and slightly upturned ducktail shape, which emphasises the characteristic of a sports coupé.

The wheelbase of the BYD SEAL provides occupants with legroom similar to that of an executive saloon. Simultaneously, the CTB framework guarantees occupant headroom while accommodating low-slung styling. Furthermore, SEAL offers more passenger room due to a flat floor, a thinner battery pack, and an optimised rear foot-to-battery pack size. The SEAL’s rear compartment meets the user’s everyday storage requirements, while the front compartment maximises space utilisation in the front cabin, extending storage space inside the vehicle.

In addition, SEAL provides over 20 flexible storage spaces for small objects. The front of the sub-dashboard has a wireless charging spot for two mobile phones. There is a functional semi-open storage area under the sub-dashboard in addition to the standard central armrest box. In addition to the map compartments on the front seat backs, there are two mobile phone pockets for rear passengers to store their personal digital devices.

Surrounding sports seats

SEAL’s front seats have a sporty appearance with soft and firm seat padding and excellent wrapping and support. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable in eight directions, and users of all sizes can find a comfortable driving position with a four-way adjustable steering wheel. The AWD’s driver’s seat has four-way power-adjustable lumbar support to relieve the fatigue of long journeys.

In addition, the front seats of the vehicle’s mid and high-end models are equipped with ventilation/heating functions that satisfy users’ specific requirements in various climatic regions and provide a comfortable driving experience under varying temperature conditions. The AWD/Design model also includes a driver’s seat position memory function, which consists of two sets of position memories assisting ease of access.

The rear seats provide a comfortable seating position for three adult occupants. The seat back, cushion padding, and angles of both the seat back and cushion angle have been fully optimised, easing any fatigue on long journeys.

Maximized skyview and efficiency

BYD SEAL has an oversized panoramic sunroof, providing occupants with an extensive view. The vehicle’s front doors are double-glazed with laminated glass for better safety and excellent sound and heat insulation. The rear of the Design version is equipped with privacy glass with a sunlight transmission rate of ≤25%, providing better shading and privacy for the rear occupants.

The concealed door handle design of the BYD SEAL, which is flush with the door when the vehicle is in motion, helps to enable airflow to pass at high speed, thereby reducing wind resistance and overall vehicle energy consumption. In conjunction with the keyless entry system, the handles rise automatically when the vehicle is unlocked.

Driver and Safety Technology as Standard

Smart connectivity and leading infotainment are other primary elements of the BYD SEAL, which is equipped with a 4G intelligent connection system bringing leading technology experiences and Over The Air (OTA) updates as a way to update infotainment features.

BYD SEAL has a unique 15.6 rotatable screen equipped with the industry-leading intelligent voice control function, with more accurate voice recognition, faster voice wake-up, stronger semantic recognition, more comprehensive function execution and more natural voice response, and integrated Apps including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The infotainment system above the steering wheel is a 10.25-inch full instrument LCD panel. The 12-speaker Dynaudio Performance Audio System with 12 speakers provides premium quality sound, and smartphone wireless charging is another convenient feature.

Safety & Driving Assistance

There is an abundance of safety and advanced driver assistance features as standard equipment in BYD SEAL. All models feature Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Rear Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Brake, Lane Keep Assistance, Lane Change Assist, and Emergency Lane Keep. ​

Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Cruise Control improve the driving experience. The panoramic camera provides 360-degree visibility for the driver for safe vehicle manoeuvring. In addition, further driver aids include Blind Spot Detection System, ESP, Traction Control, Hill Decent Control, Automatic Vehicle Hold, Intelligent Speed Limit Information, and Intelligent Speed Limit Control.

Cutting-edge lighting technology also provides a broader beam of light to assist visibility when driving at night, with High Beam Assist, Adaptive Front Headlights and Follow Me Home as standard.

BYD SEAL will be available in 4 standard colours, 2 optional colours and 6 interior trim colours.

More information and exact prizes will be announced closer to the official launch of BYD SEAL in August 2023.

 

 

Main Specifications BYD SEAL

Items	BYD SEAL
Dimension (L/W/H)	4,800/1,875/1,460
wheelbase(mm)	2920
Drive type	RWD/AWD
Top speed (km/h)	180
Motor power(kW)	230/390
0-100km/h acceleration time (s)	5.9/3.8
Wheel size (inch)	19
Electric range (km)	570/520 (WLTP combined)
Trunk volume (L)	402+53 frunk
Seating capacity (occupants)	5
Battery type	BYD Blade Battery (LFP)
Rated capacity (kWh)	82
Charging power	150kW DC ​ ​ ​11kW AC (3 phase)
DC charging time (30-80%, min)	26
Heat Pump	Standard
V2L function	Standard

 

Good specs, but I think that by now a 22 kW on-board charger should be standard in premium electric cars. The price should be around 50.000 euros. What do you think?

 

 

More info:

https://press.bydauto.be/byd-seal

The post European version of the BYD Seal is unveiled first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

Germany’s plugin electric vehicles took 21.6% of the auto market in March, down from 25.6% year on year. BEV grew share slightly, but PHEVs lost half their share YoY, due to recent policy changes. Overall auto volume was 281,361 units, up over 16% YoY, but still well down from pre-2020 seasonal norms.

March’s combined plugin share of 21.6% comprised 15.7% full electrics (BEVs), and 6.0% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). These shares compare with corresponding YoY figures of 25.6%, 14.3%, and 11.3%.

Recall that we are still in the hangover phase of the significant plugin incentive cuts that came in on January 1st (see reports from December and January for more detail). Despite this, in volume terms, BEVs saw decent YoY growth, slightly ahead of the overall market, growing sales 28% to 44,125 units. This was close to the 3rd highest volume ever (trailing the past two Decembers).

PHEVs — which lost the entire Umweltbonus incentive from January 1st — saw sales hit harder, thus the almost halving of share YoY. Their volume was down some 38% YoY, to 16,776 units.

Diesel share continued its steady decline, but petrol share actually rose YoY, from 34.9% to 36.7%. Obviously this growth in petrol share is temporary, related to the plugin incentive hangover and a resettling of the market.

As we also saw in the UK market, plugless hybrids are doing well in Germany — essentially converting sales of combustion-only vehicles over to this marginally improved technology. They are only a temporary waypoint on the road to full electric vehicles.

 

Best selling BEVs

With local Brandenburg production now ramping past 22,000 units per month, the Tesla Model Y was yet again the bestselling BEV in March. In second place was the Volkswagen ID.4/5, and in third was the ID.3.

Few of the top 20 BEVs turned up in particularly outstanding volumes, compared to their own previous averages. Only the MG4 put in a personal best performance, with 1,389 units delivered, near to twice its previous high (February).

There were a few newcomer BEV models visible further down the sales charts. The Smart “#1”, having first delivered in noticeable volume in December, had personal-best deliveries of 313 units in March.

The Ora Funky Cat saw its first volume month, with 162 units. Nio brand delivered 121 units across all models in March (up from just 13 units previously), mostly the ET5 and EL7, and a few ET7. It will be interesting to see if Nio can compete against the Germany premium brands in their home market.

Finally, Opel registered the first 42 units of the new Astra in Germany. It’s not yet clear if these are dealer demonstration units, or whether they are in fact end-customer deliveries. Either way, the doors have opened, and it is good to see Stellantis’ next generation platform — supporting both hatchback and touring body styles — now hitting the streets in Europe.

Now let’s look back at the trailing 3 month performances, bearing in mind that the market is still unsettled following the recent incentive changes:

The Tesla Model Y overwhelms all others, with volume close to the next 3 BEVs combined (including its own sibling, the Model 3). With local production continuing to grow, it is hard to see the Model Y’s dominance diminishing anytime soon.

The Model Y now starts at just under €45,000 in Germany, before incentives, so continues to remain attractive despite the recent trimming of the government bonus. Most other BEVs in the top 20 (except the MG4, and BMW iX1) have lost significant volume since Q4 2022 (before the incentive trim). The Model Y has increased delivery volume by 20% over the period, and gapped all its nearest rivals.

Since we are still in the unsettled and unrepresentative BEV market conditions, following the recent incentive changes, I’m not going to analyse the movements in ranking since Q4 in any greater detail. Suffice it to say that the Model Y, MG4 and BMW iX1 are all climbing the ranks, whilst others just tread water until the market resettles.

 

Outlook

The auto market’s YoY growth in March, which the KBA attributes to improving supply chain constraints, was a welcome talking point for the broader German economy. It is now forecast that the economy may be able to avoid recession through 2023, and instead may see fractional growth (0.2% to 0.3%, depending who you ask).

Inflation remains high but softening (7.4% from 8.7% recently), much of it due to increased energy and food prices. Plugin vehicle owners who have access to cheap overnight electricity rates are still seeing good savings on total cost of ownership compared to combustion vehicles. This being the case, and with model diversity and infrastructure density improving, we can expect demand for plugins to remain high relative to plugless vehicles, in the medium term.

In the short term, however, the disjuncture from the January 1st incentive changes has not yet settled, and we should expect modest growth for plugins until sometime in the summer when the trends will stabilise.

What are your thoughts on Germany’s EV transition? Please jump into the discussion below.

The post Tesla Model Y also leads the German EV market first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

The UK saw plugin electric vehicles take 22.4% of the auto market in March, down from 22.7% year on year. BEVs saw fractional market share growth YoY, and a new volume record, whilst PHEVs saw a slight decline. Combustion-only powertrains lost 2.5% share YoY. Overall auto volume was 287,825 units, up some 18% YoY, though still some 19% down from March 2019 levels. The Tesla Model Y was the UK’s overall best selling auto in March.

March’s combined plugin share of 22.4% comprised 16.2% full electrics (BEVs), and 6.2% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). These shares compare with YoY figures of 22.7%, 16.1%, and 6.6%.

In terms of volumes, against a backdrop of 18.2% overall auto sales growth YoY, BEVs stayed just ahead of the broader market, with 18.6% growth (to 46,626 units). This was a new record for BEV volume in the UK (from 42,284 in December ’22). PHEVs slackened, with just 11.8% growth (to 17,933 units), thus denting the overall plugin share, YoY.

Hybrids (HEVs) and mild hybrids continued to see strong growth in the UK, with 32.3% combined share of the overall market (from 29.6% YoY). This category, however, is a temporary transition technology away from combustion-only, but will itself give way to plugins, and eventually to almost entirely BEVs. HEVs and mild-hybrids are offered by manufacturers as a quick and relatively cheap way (especially in the case of mild hybrids) to improve fleet emissions, compared to ICE-only vehicles.

HEVs can save around 25% fuel use over ICE-only, whereas for mild hybrids, the figure is around 10% to 15% (EPA estimates, depends heavily on typical driving cycle). Whilst these are welcome improvements over ICE-only — especially when introduced in 1997 — they are not the final answer in a world where compelling BEVs now exist, and their technology and affordability is rapidly improving, along with densifying charging networks.

Diesels continued to slide, taking just 3.8% of the market (only December ’22 was lower), from 5.6% YoY. Their trajectory in the chart below suggests that they may dwindle to around 1% by 2025. This is roughly where they are in Norway today.

 

 

Leading BEV Brands

Tesla had yet another knock-out performance from the Model Y in the UK in March. It was the UK’s best selling vehicle (of any kind) for the month, with 8,123 units registered (just below its December all-time record).

For the Model Y, this represented a 26% YoY volume boost. However, Model 3 shrank sales YoY, such that combined Tesla volumes were down. Likely this was less to do with demand softening, and more to do with the variable logistics of producing and supplying batches of right-hand drive variants for the UK market.

Second placed brand was MG, now offering 3 great value BEVs in the UK market (when will the Marvel R join them?), of which the MG4 was the second best seller after the Model Y. Audi rounded out the top three spots.

 

In terms of movements in rank, MG’s climb to 2nd spot came off the back of a slow February, when it was only in 17th place. Again, this change results from logistics shuffling, rather than reflecting any abrupt demand fluctuations. March appears to have been the brand’s highest ever BEV volume in the UK market (over 4,000 units).

Outside the top 20, BYD made its first measurable deliveries of the Atto 3 (approximately 34 units). Being a similar size and shape to the very popular Kia Niro, the Atto 3 has every chance of eventual success in the UK market.

Stellantis brands, having had a slow January and February, returned to better form in March, with Citroën especially returning to volumes not seen since Spring 2022 (over 500 units), almost all of them the e-C4 compact SUV.

It will be interesting to see the popularity of the Stellantis’ incoming Opel (Vauxhall) Astra, and platform-sibling Peugeot e-308, in the UK market. These are expected to start to arrive from June onwards. Stellantis are one of the few legacy auto groups which have been offering “relatively” affordable BEVs, but whose WLTP range up until now has been a bit modest for some consumers.

The Astra and e-308 will finally offer a somewhat larger battery with WLTP range of over 250 miles (> 400 km). This larger battery will then later make its way into updated versions of the existing Stellantis BEVs (e-208, Corsa-e, e-C4, etc).

Let’s now review the trailing 3-month brand charts:

 

Here Tesla remains firmly in the lead, taking over 18% of the UK BEV market in Q1. The remaining ranks are more closely distributed, with MG and Audi in 2nd and 3rd spots.

In terms of the changes since Q4 2022, Tesla has kept its lead, though its market share shrank from the previous 25.5%. Here are the main gainers compared to Q4:

• MG up from 4th to 2nd
• Audi up from 6th to 3th
• Kia up from 14th to 5th
• Peugeot up from 16th to 12th
• Citroen up from 21st to 18th

On the flip side, these brands slid since Q4:

• BMW down from 2nd to 6th
• Nissan down from 5th to 14th
• Renault down from 9th to 19th

Let’s now briefly review the manufacturing group performance in Q1:

 

Here Volkswagen Group and Tesla swapped places compared to Q4, with the former gaining 2% share, and the latter losing 7%.

Hyundai climbed from 6th to 3rd, and Stellantis climbed from 8th to 4th. Geely stayed in place in 5th, as did SAIC in 7th. BMW, however, slid from 3rd in Q4, to 6th in Q1.

Renault-Nissan had the biggest drop, from 4th in Q4 (with 9.3% share), to 9th in Q1 (3.8% share).

 

Outlook

The UK economy continues in the doldrums, with forecasters split over whether it will show mild recession this year, or simply zero growth. The latest inflation rate figures show a slight rise to 10.4%, though business confidence has somewhat improved recently.

The auto industry body, the SMMT, is forecasting the auto market to be one of the few prospective growth stories of the coming year.  CEO Mike Hawes said: “With eight consecutive months of growth, the automotive industry is recovering, bucking wider trends and supporting economic growth. The best [volume] month ever for zero emission vehicles is reflective of increased consumer choice and improved availability but if EV market ambitions – and regulation – are to be met, infrastructure investment must catch up.”

For owners who can access time-of-use electricity tariffs, especially cheaper overnight rates when plugged in at home, BEVs still have much lower total cost of ownership than ICE vehicles. We can thus expect demand for them to continue to steadily climb over time — their actual rate of market share growth will likely be more constrained by supply than demand.

What are your thoughts on the UK’s transition to electric vehicles? Jump in below to join the discussion.

The post Tesla Model Y wins UK bestseller spot in March first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

We finally have the specs for the European version of the BYD Dolphin.

 

Let’s see the press release.

 

• All new BYD C-segment hatchback assures stress-free travelling
• Available with a highly efficient 60 kWh LFP Blade Battery with a 427km range (WLTP) and DC Charging (SOC 30%-80%) in just 29 minutes
• BYD DOLPHIN makes practical and effective use of the state-of-the-art e-Platform 3.0
• High levels of standard equipment and driver technology feature across the BYD DOLPHIN range
• BYD Dolphin features four trim levels and will be available in LHD and RHD markets
• The BYD DOLPHIN will be available around June / July

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and power batteries, announces the presale of the new BYD DOLPHIN. This all-new C-segment hatchback features practicality, efficiency, accessibility and, above all, stress-free travelling as its unique selling points. The BYD DOLPHIN will be available around June / July.

BYD DOLPHIN is the first model in the Ocean series and the first to adopt the “Ocean Aesthetics” design concept providing a dynamic, stylish, and highly recognisable visual symbol. In the car’s design, the dolphin, a marine mammal, is presented in both figurative and imaginative forms. Dolphin offers a 60 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate BYD Blade Battery, an exclusive safety body structure for pure electric vehicles, and has a complete range of active and passive safety features, which gives it an incomparable inherent advantage in terms of safety performance. BYD DOLPHIN also features a safe passenger compartment environment, with intelligent driver assistance systems and integrated braking systems to make travel safer and driving more convenient. Like the recently launched BYD ATTO 3, BYD DOLPHIN is also built on e-Platform 3.0.

Revolutionary Blade Battery as a standard

BYD DOLPHIN benefits from the ground-breaking Blade Battery, which is revolutionising safety, durability and performance in the EV industry, and can withstand the harsh punishment of the Nail Penetration Test, regarded as the ‘Mount Everest’ of battery safety tests. BYD DOLPHIN’s cobalt-free Blade Batteries use Lithium Iron-Phosphate (LFP) as its cathode material, which offers a much higher level of safety than conventional lithium-ion batteries. LFP has inherently excellent thermal stability. While being ultra-safe and durable, the Blade Battery is uncompromising in performance, delivering high power density with the benefit of ultra-low energy consumption. This works in close synergy with BYD’s competency in electric powertrain technology. BYD DOLPHIN is, like the BYD ATTO 3, built on BYD’s intelligent e-Platform 3.0 for the ultimate in system efficiency and integrated vehicle intelligence. BYD’s 8-in-1 electric powertrain integrates the Vehicle Control Unit, the Battery Management System, the Power Distribution Unit, the Drive Motor, the Motor Controller, the Transmission, DC-DC, and On-Board Charger. Such deep integration delivers a system efficiency of 89%.

This integrated technology has been developed to deliver optimum performance and a better driving experience. With the 60 kWh Blade Battery and a permanent magnet synchronous motor, BYD DOLPHIN can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds. The 290 Nm of torque and 150kW/204 PS strong motor provide seamless performance helping the Dolphin reach a maximum top speed of 160 km/h. The four driving modes include Sport, Normal, Economy, and Snow modes to suit driving conditions and preferences.

Reassuring range of 427 km WLTP

BYD DOLPHIN has a reassuring WLTP combined electric range of 427 km. Charging power is 11 kW AC 3 phase. High performance is also achieved when it comes to recharging. The 100 kW DC charger can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in just 29 minutes. BYD DOLPHIN is also equipped with VtoL, so the car battery can easily charge external devices.

There is also a high-efficiency integrated heat pump as standard on BYD DOLPHIN. The industry’s first direct cooling and heating system for power batteries increases the thermal efficiency by up to 15% in the winter. This innovative system leverages the residual heat from the surroundings, the powertrain, the passenger compartment and even the batteries, and can work at a wide range of temperatures. Intelligent thermal management for extreme weather conditions enables an excellent low-temperature driving range. As a sub-function of the smart brake system, the CRBS coordinated regenerative braking system can efficiently recover the braking energy of the whole vehicle.

DOLPHIN design: simple and approachable

The BYD DOLPHIN design is simple and approachable, as with the rest of the vehicle. BYD DOLPHIN is instantly recognisable and futuristic due to its rounded profile and side silhouette resembling the graceful lines of a leaping dolphin. Based on the Dolphin’s new energy attributes, the short front and rear overhangs and long wheelbase give the car a more spacious appearance. Measuring 4,290 mm long and 1,770 mm wide (with wing mirrors unfolded), the BYD DOLPHIN features a 2,700 mm wheelbase optimised for space and comfort. The vehicle height is 1,570 mm.

With seating for five occupants, the ergonomically designed sports seats and headrests are made from vegan leather. The heated front seats have a six-way electric adjustment for the driver and a four-way electric adjustment for the front passenger. The rear seats provide generous legroom for passengers, made possible by the e-Platform 3.0. The seats can split 60:40 allowing the 345-litre boot to be expanded to 1,310 litres when both seats are folded flat.

The seat’s shoulder and back support has been specially optimised, and the side wings are more upright, perfectly fitting the body’s curves for a more comfortable, wraparound ride. BYD DOLPHIN is designed with more than 20 practical and flexible storage spaces for daily travel, and the boot can easily store four standard 20-inch suitcases.

The BYD DOLPHIN range topping variants feature a large panoramic sunroof made of high-strength acoustic and thermally insulated double-layer grey glazing, with a glass area comparable to that of a D-class luxury car. This provides users with an ultra-wide-angle view, a larger light area, and a more transparent view. It is also equipped with a 97% sunshade to keep you cool on hot summer days.

The classy interior of the BYD DOLPHIN is designed with smooth, expansive curves to create the illusion that the occupants are wrapped in waves. By placing conventional functions at your fingertips, the dashboard’s simple and refined design provides an innovative human-machine interaction experience. Less space is consumed by physical buttons, allowing for more storage space.

Vehicle-To-Load as a Standard

BYD DOLPHIN provides VTOL discharge back technology, which can achieve 3.3kW external discharge, allowing the new energy vehicle to become a mobile power station. This provides convenience for outdoor picnics and open-air movies, allowing multiple lifestyle applications.

Safety & Driving Assistance

The BYD DOLPHIN comes standard with an abundance of safety and advanced driver assistance features. All models feature Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rear Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Brake, Lane Departure Prevention and Emergency Lane Keeping Assist.

Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Cruise Control add to the enjoyment of driving. The panoramic camera provides the driver with 360-degree visibility for safe vehicle manoeuvring. In addition, a Blind Spot Detection System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Decent Control, Automatic Vehicle Hold, and Traffic Sign Recognition with Intelligent Speed Limit Control are included as additional driver aids.

Cutting-edge lighting technology also provides a broader beam of light to assist visibility when driving at night, with High Beam Assist, Adaptive Front Headlights and Follow Me Home as a standard.

Inspired by the biological characteristics of the BYD DOLPHIN, the design team gave the Dolphin a two-tone body and echoed the colours inside and out to create a sense of exclusivity. The exterior of the BYD DOLPHIN will be available in seven colour combinations.

More information and exact prices will be announced closer to the official launch of BYD DOLPHIN in June 2023.

 

 

Now the specs.

 

Main specifications BYD DOLPHIN (60 kWh)

Items	BYD DOLPHIN
Dimension (L/W/H)	4,290/1,770/1,570
wheelbase(mm)	2700
Drive type	FWD
Top speed (km/h)	160
Motor power(kW)	150
0-100km/h acceleration time (s)	7
Wheel size (inch)	16/17
Electric range (km)	427(WLTP combined)
Trunk volume (L)	345/1,310
Seating capacity (occupants)	5
Battery type	BYD BladeBattery (LFP)
Rated capacity (kWh)	60
Charging power	88kW DC ​ ​ ​11kW AC (3 phase)
DC charging time (30-80%, min)	29
Heat Pump	Standard
V2L function	Standard

 

Compared to the Chinese version, the European BYD Dolphin is larger, has longer range and a more powerful motor, but the price is disappointing.

 

NEIN NEIN NEIN BYD NEIN
DAS IST ZU TEUER pic.twitter.com/9tD5J9X61n

— Vanessa Lisa Oelmann (@VLOelmann) April 11, 2023

 

With a starting price of 30.000 euros, the BYD Dolphin seems aimed to compete with the MG4 Electric. My opinion is that both models should do well until the new Tesla hatchback eventually dominates this price range. Then there will be a need for price cuts…

The good news is that the Qin EV, the Dolphin and the Seagull models are expected to be the first BYD electric cars to get versions with a sodium-ion battery later this year, which will help to cut down the prices easily.

Thanks Pedro Ventura for the heads up.

 

What do you think about the Euro version of the BYD Dolphin compared to its main rival, the MG 4 Electric? Are you more interested in the future cheaper version with sodium-ion battery?

 

 

More info:

https://press.bydauto.be/byd-dolphin

The post European version of the BYD Dolphin is revealed first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

Norway’s plugin electric vehicles took 91.1% share of the auto market in March, down from 91.9% year on year. The slight dent in share came from a drop in plugin hybrid volume, against overall market growth. Overall auto volume was 19,366 units, up some 19% YoY, and the highest March sales since at least 2016 (though compensating from a hangover earlier in Q1).

The Tesla Model Y broke all records, with the highest monthly sales of any vehicle in Norway’s history, with 7,445 units registered, and over 38% of the entire auto market.

 

March’s combined plugin result of 91.1% comprised 86.8% full electrics (BEVs), and 4.3% plugin hybrids. Their respective shares a year ago were 91.9%, 86.1%, and 5.8%.

Plugless hybrids (HEVs) did better than PHEVs, growing their share from a year ago (6.1% from 2.7%). This is likely a temporary blip, the result of a resettling of the market following regulatory changes that came in on January 1st. Overall, HEVs have been on a long term decline since mid 2020.

Petrol-only vehicles saw their lowest share in modern history, taking just 1% of the market. Even adding in diesel-only vehicles, the combined ICE-only share was at a record low of 2.7%, from 5.3% YoY.

 

Norway’s Best Selling BEVs

The Tesla Model Y broke all records in March, with the OFV recording 7,445 units registered. This even exceeds the shock result of the Tesla Model 3 from March 2019 (5,315 units), in both volume, and in market share. The Model Y alone took over 38% of Norway’s new passenger auto registrations in March.

To give a sense of the scale of the Model Y’s achievement – consider that it sold almost the same volume as the rest of the top 20 BEVs combined!

Note that the performance of these other BEVs was not weak in absolute terms, it was roughly in line with March 2022. In the immediate shadow of the Tesla were the runners up, the Toyota BZ4X (repeating its 2nd place, first achieved in February), and the Volvo XC40, in third.

[Clarification: the unit numbers we use for our ranking charts use a different counting methodology from the OFV, so model totals differ slightly, typically within 1%].

 

 

The Volvo XC40 jumped ahead of the Volkswagen ID.4, and ID.3, pushing them down to 4th and 5th spots, respectively. The ID. Buzz saw its highest volume since December, and took 6th.

In other notable news, further back in the pack, the Peugeot 208 had its highest ever monthly volume (previous best was way back in August 2020), registering 330 units, and taking 11th spot. A similar personal best was gained by its slightly lower volume sibling, the Opel Corsa, just outside the top 20.

In terms of the progress of newer models: the Nissan Ariya (which debuted in August ’22) saw its highest ever monthly volumes (226 units), and climbed to 15th spot. The new Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan build upon its debut last month, with a decent climb to 198 units, and 19th spot.

Finally, the Nio ET5 made its Norway debut in March, registering a healthy 41 initial units (for info on this new model, see my Sweden report).

Let’s now step back for the broader view:

Thanks to the blowout performance in March, even over a 3 month timeline, the Tesla Model Y is heavily dominant!

The other notable climbs are by relative newcomers. After two decent months in Norway, the Toyota BZ4X — having suffered plenty of initial snafus — is now doing well, and has consolidated 2nd place, from 22nd in Q4 last year.

This seems to be a result of Toyota strongly tilting its supply towards Norway, more than any other country (even than the much larger German BEV market), and catching up on a long (delayed) queue of back-orders. We will have to see how it performs across Europe as a whole (as well as in other regions).

Another great climb has been seen for the new ID. Buzz, going from 18th in Q4, to 6th in Q1. Finally, another relative newcomer, the BMW iX1, has seen great progress, from its very first deliveries in December, climbing to 16th rank in Q1.

After the untimely demise of the BMW i3, the iX1 is the most affordable BMW BEV on offer, and we should expect it to be the brand’s bestseller over the medium term. For those keeping records, the iX1 a is mid sized SUV (almost the same length as the VW ID.4).

Here’s a brief summary of the largest top 20 movers since Q4:

Climbers:

• Toyota BZ4x up from 22nd to 2nd !!!
• VW ID.3 up from 14th to 5th
• VW ID. Buzz up from 18th to 6th
• Tesla Model 3 up from 52nd to 8th
• Hyundai Kona up from 30th to 13th
• Peugeot e-2008 up from 40th to 14th
• Peugeot e-208 up from 48th to 15th
• BMW iX1 up from 34th to 16th
• Nissan Ariya up from 32nd to 20th

Sliders:

• Skoda Enyaq down from 4th to 7th
• BMW iX down from 5th to 58th
• BMW i4 down from 6th to 21st
• Volvo C40 down from 7th to 18th
• Mercedes EQC down from 8th to 48th
• Polestar 2 down from 9th to 25th
• Audi Q8 e-tron down from 10th to 19th
• Hyundai Ioniq 5 down from 12th to 23rd

In a smaller market like Norway, a month or two of deliveries made (or paused) can be the equivalent of an on-or-off tap in influencing a model’s short term ranking. It doesn’t necessarily reflect the longer term relative demand for a model.

 

Outlook

Norway’s economy is escaping some of the worst of the fate of other European neighbours. We saw in yesterday’s report that neighbouring Sweden is now in an inflationary recession (“stagflation”). Norway has escaped this, partly due to its substantial fossil fuel exports (giving its current account a record surplus in 2022), against the backdrop of European energy supply disruption.

According to a recent forecast from the country’s central bank, Norges Bank, the economy is on track for modest 1.1% growth in 2023. Since energy and food are internationally traded, Norwegian consumer prices have also been exposed to Europe’s inflationary trends in recent months, despite the country’s overall balance of trade benefiting overall from the higher energy prices (via exports).

Much of the energy price inflation that Norwegian consumers are exposed to has been offset by an electricity subsidy scheme funded by the government (and its ballooning national surplus). So overall, the long term running cost advantages of plugin vehicles remain attractive, relative to ICE vehicles.

This being the case, combined with Norway being a relatively small auto market in terms of the volume to be satiated, we can expect the market share of plugin vehicles, especially BEVs, to continue the steady upward climb. The past 6 months have seen BEVs take more than 83% of auto sales. For  BEV share to consistently reach into the 90% range, may require decent supply of a variety of compelling small, affordable models (BYD dolphin anyone?) These will be needed to displace the stubbornly continuing sales of HEV autos, like the Toyota Yaris, and Toyota Corolla (which together sold almost 1,000 units in March).

What are your thoughts on Norway’s EV transition and its likely end-game? Please jump in to the discussion below.

The post Tesla Model Y continues to lead auto sales in Norway first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

Sweden’s plugin electric vehicles took almost 60% of the auto market in March, up from 55.6% year on year. BEVs alone took 41.6% of the market, up from 31.8% YoY. Overall auto market volume was 30,261 units, up some 5% YoY, though still below historical seasonal norms. The Tesla Model Y was the overall best selling vehicle of any kind, taking 10.6% of all passenger auto sales!

 

March’s combined plugin share of 59.9% comprised 41.6% full electrics (BEVs), and 18.3% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). These shares compare YoY with 55.6%, 31.8%, and 23.7%, respectively.

It terms of volumes, BEVs were up nearly 38% YoY, while PHEVs were down by some 19%. Petrol-only vehicles, and HEVs, were essentially flat YoY, and diesels were down by over a third.

Diesel share of the market reached a near record low of 7.6% (only December ’22 was lower, at 6.7%). Petrol share looks set to regularly slide under 20% in Q3 or Q4 this year. Excepting the potential of anomalous logistics events, it is unlikely that non-plugins will ever get near to 50% share of the market again (and soon, 40% will be a stretch).

 

 

Sweden’s Best Selling BEVs

Tesla’s Model Y was (by far) the best selling BEV in March, and in fact the best selling of any auto, with a massive 3,202 units. This was 10.6% of the entire passenger auto market! Only the Volvo XC40 BEV has come close to this performance, taking 7.4% of the auto market last December.

This time around, the XC40 had to settle for second, with 1,255 units, far behind the Tesla. The Volkswagen ID.4 came in third (898 units).

 

 

There were no big surprises in the top 20, though let’s give a shout out to the good value MG5 for setting its volume record (413 units) and grabbing 6th spot.

Outside the top 20, a newcomer BEV model, the Nio ET5, showed its face for the first time with an initial 6 units registered. The ET5 is a premium priced, mid sized sedan, with long range, battery swapping, and with a tech focus. For comparison, its monthly lease cost is about 10% more than the Tesla Model 3 Dual Motor, and is around 10cm longer in size, with similar performance.

At this price point, the Nio will obviously remain a niche vehicle, but may push innovation in this upper end of the market, and may perhaps get Nio closer to releasing more affordable future vehicles.

Let’s look at the 3-month view:

 

 

The Tesla Model Y has now jumped up into first place, from 4th as recently as last quarter. The former leader, the Volvo XC40, has been displaced, now in 2nd, and the VW ID.4 has likewise been shuffled down a spot, into 3rd.

Let’s summarize the main climbers compared to the previous (October-to-December) period:

• Tesla Model Y up from 4th to 1st
• Kia EV6 up from 9th to 4th
• Tesla Model 3 recovering from 37th to 5th
• MG5 up from 18th to 9th
• BMW i4 up from 23rd to 12th

These models were amongst those dropping back:

• Volvo C40 fell from 3rd to 7th
• Polestar 2 fell from 5th to 13th
• Nissan Leaf fell from 8th to 14th

With Tesla’s local European production now passing 22,000 units per month (and still climbing), and with Shanghai production still supplementing that, the Model Y is now looking ever harder to displace from the BEV lead across almost all European markets.

In markets already well down the path of the EV transition, the Model Y has a decent chance to be the overall best selling vehicle. This despite its price tag of €45,000 to €48,000, for the entry variant!

 

Outlook

Sweden’s auto industry organization, Mobility Sweden, has recently downgraded its overall auto sales forecast for 2023, from 290,000 down to 265,000 units. It cites the overall economic conditions for consumers, as well as the cancellation of plugin incentives in November 2022.

“In recent times, the Swedes have been hit by higher interest rates, inflation and generally increased living costs” said CEO Mattias Bergman (Machine Translation).

The inflation rate stands at 12% (and is still on an upward trend), whilst house prices are falling, and the economy has recently been forecast to recess by 0.6% this year.

Obviously this will put a brake on consumer orders for new autos, potentially including BEVs. Since there is a large order backlog of autos, and especially BEVs, it may only be in late Q3 that any downturn in sales becomes clear, so we will have to wait and see.

As usual, those who have enough upfront capital to pay the premium for a plugin are then able to access better overall value in total costs of ownership, due largely to energy cost savings. Depending on how hard consumer spending gets hit, we should expect the relative demand for plugins, especially BEVs, to remain stronger than that of non-plugins, throughout much of 2023.

What are your thoughts on Sweden’s EV transition? Please jump in to the discussion below.

The post Tesla Model Y strengthens its position in Sweden first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

On April 6, the good looking 2023 BYD e2 was officially launched in China with two configurations. The Charming model is priced at 102.800 yuan (13.716 euros) and the Luxury model is priced at 109.800 yuan (14.650 euros).

The BYD e2 is a nice electric compact hatchback now part of the Ocean series, that sooner or later is going to get an international version and be exported to Europe and Australia.

 

Let’s see some of the specs.

 

• Length × width × height: 4260×1760×1530 mm
• Wheelbase: 2.610 mm
• Wheel base front/rear: 1.490/1.470 mm
• Minimum turning radius: 5,4 meters
• Tire specifications: 205/60 R16
• Drive motor type: AC permanent magnet synchronous motor
• Drive motor maximum power: 70 kW
• Maximum torque of drive motor: 180 N.m
• 0-50 km/h acceleration time: 4,9 seconds
• Range under CLTC: 405 km
• Battery capacity: 43,2 kWh
• Battery type: module-less LFP (LiFePO4) battery (BYD Blade)
• Fast charging time: 30 minutes from 30 to 80 %
• DC charging: 40 kW
• AC charging: 6,6 kW
• VTOL (vehicle to load): 3,3 kW
• Wireless keys: bluetooth and NFC
• Air conditioner: efficient heat pump
• Interior and exterior lights: LED
• Rear parking sensors: 4
• Reversing camera system: standard
• Cruise control system: standard
• Vehicle warranty: Lifetime warranty for the electric system (first owner), and the warranty period for the whole vehicle is 6 years or 150.000 kilometers

 

On April 18, my favorite BYD electric car will be launched, the affordable and ultimate urban companion, the BYD Seagull.

 

Anyway, what do you think about the 2023 BYD e2?

 

 

More info:

https://www.bydauto.com.cn/pc/carDetail?id=88

The post 2023 BYD e2 is officially launched first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

France saw record high plugin electric vehicle share in March, at 25.4%, up from 21.4% year on year. BEVs alone took 16.8% share, a new record. Overall auto volumes were 182,712 units, up some 24% year on year, though still well off the pre-2020 seasonal average (~230,000 units). The Tesla Model Y was the best selling BEV, and 4th highest selling auto overall.

 

 

March’s combined plugin result of 25.4% share comprised 16.8% full electrics (BEVs), and 8.6% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). These figures compare YoY with shares of 21.4%, 13.5%, and 7.9%, respectively.

In volume terms, with the overall auto market up over 24% YoY, all powertrains saw some volume growth except for diesel (down 5.7% YoY to 19,865 units). BEVs saw record volume of 30,636 units (up over 54% YoY), with PHEVs at a near record 15,717 units (up 34%).

Combined traditional combustion-only powertrains managed to cling on to 50% share of the market, perhaps for the last time. Diesel alone was down to a record low of 10.9% share in March (from 14.3% YoY).

 

 

France’s Best Selling BEVs

Tesla’s Model Y took the top spot in March, with 6,455 units. The runners up were the Dacia Spring (3,481 units) and Peugeot e-208 (3,256 units).

The Model Y was also the 4th best selling auto overall (behind the Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, and Citroen C3). Along with 2,008 units of the Tesla Model 3 (5th spot), this was Tesla’s best ever monthly volume in France.

For once, we have fairly full BEV model sales data for March (and for 2023 YTD) from AAA Data, and so we can present a top 20 chart:

 

With Tesla’s Berlin Gigafactory now ramping production past 22,000 units per month (all for the European market), we can expect the Model Y to be a regular showing at or near France’s top spot.

The other models populating the top 10 are — as usual — mostly relatively affordable compact or small vehicles like the Fiat 500, Renault Megane, MG4, Renault Zoe and Renault Twingo.

Outside the top 20, newer faces that we can detect for the first time in the March data include the Opel Astra, the BYD Atto 3, and Genesis G80. The latter two each only registered a single unit, they will climb from here.

The Opel Astra has already registered 66 units year-to-date (likely mostly demonstration units), and should become one of Stellantis’ high volume sellers, alongside its platform sibling, the upcoming Peugeot e-308. Each of these new models will offer both hatchback, and tourer/estate formats.

Let’s look at the longer term sales trends:

 

There have been a few changes since 3 months ago (October-to-December). Whereas previously the Tesla Model 3 had been in the lead, the Model Y has now taken the top spot (from 3rd previously), and the older sibling has dropped to 6th (with under half the previous volume).

Meanwhile, the Dacia Spring, Peugeot e-208, and Fiat 500 have also climbed, while the Renault Megane has fallen. Here’s the summary of the main movers in the top ranks, compared to 3 months prior:

The main climbers:

• Tesla Model Y up from #3 to #1
• Dacia Spring up from #4 to #2
• Peugeot 208 up from #5 to #3
• Fiat 500 up from #6 to #4
• MG4 up from #13 to #7
• Renault ZOE up from #12 to #8

The following models lost position:

• Tesla Model 3 down from #1 to #6
• Renault Megane down from #2 to #5
• Volkswagen ID.3 down from #7 to #13
• Mini Cooper down from #8 to #14

The Tesla Model Y is now looking unassailable (and not just in France, but across Europe, and the wider world). Why? Mainly because it is both a compelling offering (with access to Tesla’s reliable charging network) and is being produced in very high volume. There are plenty of other compelling (and good value) BEVs on the market – in France the MG4 especially comes to mind – but almost none are being produced in anything close to the Model Y’s volume.

 

Outlook

March saw the 7th consecutive month of YoY auto volume recovery in France, in part due to supply chain constraints lifting. Amongst growing overall auto supply, it’s good to see BEVs making more progress than any other powertrain, and breaking new ground in monthly sales volume (higher even than the recent December peak).

The French National Bank’s deputy governor recently predicted modest (0.6%) overall economic growth this year, and 1.2% next year. Lacklustre, to be sure, but better than many of France’s neighbours who face outright recession this year. Inflation is coming under control (5.6% from 6.3% previously). Ongoing large popular protests across the country, however, may yet throw a spanner in the works of the economy in 2023, including perhaps the auto industry.

For those still able to access cheap time-of-use discount rates for electricity, the relative running costs of plugins remain very attractive, against the prospect of now rising road-fuel prices. This long term total-cost-of-ownership advantage is still driving demand for plugins relative to ICE autos, and will continue to do so. We can thus expect to see plugin market share continue to grow throughout 2023, despite what might happen to over auto volumes.

What are your thoughts on France’s EV transition and outlook? Please join in the discussion in the comments section below.

The post French EV market record high in March first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

Germany, Europe’s single largest auto market, saw plugin electric vehicles take 21.5% share of sales in February 2023, a drop from 24.9% year on year. Full electric share grew, but plugin hybrid share almost halved. Overall auto volume was 206,210 units, up by some 3% YoY, but still some 18% down from pre-2020 seasonal norms. The Tesla Model Y was the month’s bestselling plugin, and second overall auto (behind the VW Golf).

 

 

February’s 21.5% combined plugin result comprised 15.7% battery electrics (BEVs), and 5.8% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). This compares to YoY shares 24.9%, 14.1%, and 10.8%, respectively. BEVs have grown share modestly, but PHEVs have lost significantly.

Overall auto market volume growth came on the back of sales growth of HEVs, BEVs, and Petrols. HEVs were the biggest winner proportionally, growing volume 24.2% YoY. BEVs grew volume by 14.7%, and Petrols by 8.9%.

Recall that these ups and downs represent a resettling of the market after the large pull-forward in November and December (ahead of incentive changes). It will be another few more months before a new normal in powertrain share is clear.

 

 

BEV bestsellers

With the local Tesla Gigafactory now cranking out 18,000 units per month (and climbing), the Tesla Model Y saw a huge 6,442 registrations in February, its 3rd highest volume ever (from 2022 September, and December). Note that this isn’t even an end of quarter month, Tesla’s habitual peak.

Across all powertrains, the Tesla Model Y was second only to the Volkswagen Golf in Germany (7,655 units). It was also over 3× the volume of the runners up, the VW ID.4/5 (treated as one model, two variants in the KBA data), and the VW ID.3.

 

 

Aside from the Model Y, most others in the top 10 had lacklustre volumes, well below their trailing 3 month average. The only exception was the Mini, which was in line with that recent average.

The same lukewarm performance is true for much of the top 20, with a couple of exceptions. The new MG4, down in 14th place, saw 776 units, a new monthly record, and 1.6× its recent average. The new Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan saw its first ever countable customer deliveries, with an impressive 581 units.

The BMW iX1 also did relatively well, with 537 units, its second highest month after December. This is now BMW’s bestselling BEV in Germany, and should retain that position going forwards.

Outside the top 20, there were several new models introduced. Following on from Genesis’ deliveries of the first GV60 midsize SUV in January, this month they also delivered initial volumes of the larger GV70 SUV (20 units), and also of the G80 sedan (10 units). All are compelling vehicles, already very popular in their home market of South Korea.

Two other newcomer BEVs were visible, the Nio ET7 sedan (8 units), and the Ora Funky Cat hatchback (5 units), both already well established in their home market of China.

Let’s keep an eye on how all these newly released models progress in Germany over the coming months.

We now zoom out for the longer term perspective:

 

 

Compared to the previous time period (September-to-November), the top two spots are the same, both going to Tesla. The VW ID.4/5 has climbed into 3rd, swapping ranks with the Fiat 500. The ID.3 has stayed steady in 4th.

Here are the latest quarter’s main climbers compared to the previous period:

• VW ID.4/ID.5 up to 3rd from 5th
• Opel Corsa up to 8th from 22nd
• Smart Fortwo up to 14th from 20th

Here’s a summary of the significant drops in ranking:

• Fiat 500 fell from 3rd to 5th
• Opel Mokka-e fell from 6th to 13th
• Polestar 2 fell from 14th to 35th

Note that the regular caution about over-interpreting these single-country movements is nicely illustrated by the Polestar 2. Its German volumes have slid recently, whilst its UK volumes (and those in other European markets) have steadily climbed. Overall it has gained volume and share in Europe, and its fate in Germany turns out to be anomalous.

We can step back even further, and look at the manufacturing group performance:

 

Compared to the previous period, the top 8 ranks remain exactly the same, but the weightings have changed.

Volkswagen Group has added 1.5% share of the market, from 26.6% of the market previously, to 28.1% now. Tesla has lost 1.2% share of the market, to 19.6% share.  Stellantis, in third, has gained 0.7%.

The other changes are more marginal, except for Geely in 8th place, which cut its share more significantly, from 4.4% to 2.6%. This is in line with what we discussed regarding the Polestar 2, above.

The top 3 spots look fairly stable for now, but there’s potential movement in the 4th to 7th rankings, being much more closely competed.

Outlook

Germany’s economy is currently in economic decline, with Q4 showing YoY shrinkage, and Q1 forecast to show the same, Germany’s federal bank said recently. Inflation also remains high at a recently stable 8.7%. Recession and inflation are a miserable combination for consumers.

Against this background, the auto market will struggle to see significant growth this year. There may be supply chain improvements compared to the past two years, which will help speed a backlog of long awaited orders through, juicing the volumes a bit compared to last year. But future growth in new orders seems unlikely in recessionary conditions.

Nevertheless, plugins are still relatively attractive from a long term cost of ownership perspective, compared to ICE. BEVs’ diversity of model offerings is growing, and their technology (charging, range, cold weather efficiency) is steadily improving. Infrastructure is growing and becoming more reliable. Against this backdrop, we can expect to see the market share of plugins to continue to grow overall, even if 2023’s overall auto volumes may turn out to be weak.

What are your thoughts on Germany’s auto industry outlook in the months ahead? Please join in the discussion in the comments section below.

The post Domestic Tesla Model Y dominates the German EV market first appeared on 🔋PushEVs.

The UK saw plugin electric vehicles take 22.9% share of the auto market in February 2023, down from 25.6% year on year. Overall auto volume was 74,441 units, up some 26% YoY, though still down from the ~81.000 unit seasonal norm, pre-2020. The Tesla Model Y was the UK’s best selling full electric vehicle for the month.

February’s 22.9% combined plugin result comprised 16.5% full battery electrics (BEVs), and 6.3% plugin hybrids (PHEVs). This compares to respective shares of 25.6%, 17.7%, and 7.9% a year ago.

The YoY fall in share of plugins reflects the temporary bounce back of petrol-powertrain volumes YoY (from 23,952 to 32.331 units). This is likely due to dealers wanting to clear a backlog of “old” petrol-car stocks ahead of the new licence plate arriving in March. If so, this suggests a potential snap-back for plugins in the March powertrain shares.

BEVs actually gained YoY volume by roughly 20%, to 12,310 units, but these gains were submerged by the bigger push of petrol sales. PHEV volumes were essentially flat, YoY.

 

 

UK Top BEV Brands

From the SMMT’s monthly top ten auto models list, we know that the Tesla Model Y was the overall sixth bestselling vehicle in February, with 1,482 units. This also makes it the best selling BEV model, alone taking 12% of the BEV market, two thirds of Tesla’s total.

Beyond this, the SMMT doesn’t provide dedicated BEV model data, but we do have a summary of a representative portion of brand share data from the DVLA new licence database, gathered via API by New Automotive.

 

 

Audi came in 2nd spot, likely mostly thanks to the Q4 e-tron. Polestar came in third (all the Polestar 2). Volkswagen and Kia filled out the top 5 spots.

Other than the habitual monthly volume swings for Tesla, only MG saw a big change, temporarily dropping from 4th spot in January, to 17th in February. Like Tesla, in MG’s case this is mostly down to long distance arrivals of discrete batches that are uneven from month to month.

Let’s look at the 3 month landscape:

There were not too many major changes in the top 10 brands, compared to three months ago. Tesla still leads, though Volkswagen has climbed, and BMW fell by one spot.

Audi climbed a bit, as did Polestar and Renault. Mercedes and Hyundai both dropped down the ranks.

Here’s a summary of the main movements compared to the prior period:

• Volkswagen up from 4th to 2nd
• Audi up from 7th to 4th
• Polestar up from 9th to 6th
• Renault up from 17th to 7th

When some go up, others go down:

• MG fell from 3rd to 5th
• Mercedes fell from 5th to 10th
• Hyundai fell from 8th to 11th

Many of the movements are temporary, due to shifting allocation decisions. Polestar has steadily climbed in volumes and ranking since summer 2022, when it was at a low ebb. A year or so ago, Polestar was never consistently in the top 10. This progress is good to see for a newer, BEV-only brand.

Here’s a brief look at manufacturing group rankings:

 

The top 3 ranks are unchanged for almost half a year now, with Tesla, Volkswagen Group, and BMW Group, again filling the top spots. BMW however did lose some weighting, whilst both Tesla and VW gained, growing their gap over all the others.

Renault Nissan climbed from 8th (in the 3 months to November) to 4th, despite Nissan losing share. This is likely mostly thanks to the Renault Megane, which started initial UK deliveries in late 2022, and growing volume since. If so, this would also explain the Megane’s recent slight loss of weighting in home market France, where its sales were concentrated for most of last year.

Stellantis fell from 5th to 8th over the period. Other movements in group ranking were relatively minor shuffles.

 

Outlook

The UK economy is hovering around 0% growth (“stagnation”) over the past 2 quarters, so officially just escaping formal recessionary conditions. Inflation however remains above 10%, so stagflation is present.

The auto market’s recent few months of YoY growth is due to “easing supply chain shortages”, according to the SMMT. This allows an increased ability to work through customer waiting lists that are, in many cases, months long. Beyond existing orders, whether auto demand will continue to rise in conditions of stagflation remains to be seen.

Whatever happens to overall auto market volumes throughout 2023, plugins retain their long term cost of ownership advantages, relatively low depreciation, and experiential advantages, compared to combustion vehicles. In this case, we can expect their share of the market to continue to grow, even if volume growth is lacklustre.

What do you think about the UK’s transition to EVs? Please jump in to the discussion in the comment section below.

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