Daimler launches new all-electric Denza 400 in China

Daimler has expanded extends its portfolio of new energy vehicles (NEV) with the introduction of the Denza 400, the company’s ‘Made in China, for China’ electric vehicle from Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co Ltd. (BDNT).

The Denza 400 offers upgraded battery, electric motor and electronic control providing customers an electric range of up to 400km on a full charge. The vehicles are manufactured at BDNT’s independent production line at the BYD base in Shenzhen. The new flexible production line will increase capacity based on future market demand. Daimler says today’s start of production of another NEV underlines its comprehensive approach in the area of electric mobility.

“Our joint venture BDNT unites the best of Sino-German cooperation in new energy vehicles. Already offering safe, reliable and convenient electric vehicles from and for China, the Denza 400 with upgraded range offers our Chinese customers a further improved driving experience,” said Hubertus Troska, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Greater China. “We are confident about the future prospect of new energy vehicles in the country. Daimler will continue to invest in research and development of efficient and eco-friendly new energy vehicles, which represent a key pillar of our China growth strategy.”

In addition to electric vehicles, Daimler’s strategy in China to reduce emissions and promote environmental responsibility includes an increasing offering of plug-in hybrid vehicles. In 2013, Mercedes-Benz became the first automaker to offer petrol, diesel and hybrid models at the same time in China. The E 400 L Hybrid was the first locally-produced hybrid from a premium brand, while the smart electric drive (electric power consumption combined 15.1 kWh/100km/ CO2 emissions combined 0g/km) was the first imported premium all-electric vehicle from Europe.

The Denza 400 features improved battery density achieved through an upgraded production process that increases the battery’s capacity from 47.5 kWh to 62 kWh while maintaining the original size. With an upgraded range of up to 400km, most Chinese consumers, who generally drive 50 to 80km per day, will only need to recharge their Denza 400 once per week. 

The first-generation Denza was launched in 2014 as the premiere offering from the first Sino-German joint venture dedicated to electric vehicles in China. The car sold nearly 3,000 units in its first year in 2015.