BYD reveals Star Wars-inspired electric SUV with drone landing pad
What's the story
China's premier automaker, BYD, has unveiled its latest innovation - the Super 3 electric SUV concept.
Expected to be priced under $28,000, this vehicle boasts a unique "interstellar chariot" design and features a drone landing pad.
The Super 3 is the latest addition to BYD's Fang Cheng Bao line, a sub-brand focusing on personalized and professional-grade new energy vehicles (NEVs) launched in June last year.
Growth
Fang Cheng Bao's expansion and new models
Fang Cheng Bao, BYD's sub-brand, first made its mark with the Bao 5, an off-road plug-in hybrid model introduced in November.
The model was built on BYD's advanced tech platform, Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO).
The brand has ambitious plans to diversify its portfolio with a range of vehicles including off-roaders and sports cars.
Fang Cheng Bao has also showcased the flagship Bao 8 SUV and a Super 9 convertible sportscar.
Inspiration
Super 3: An electric SUV inspired by Star Wars
Unlike its predecessor Bao 5, the Super 3 will be entirely electric. The company revealed that the electric SUV's chassis draws inspiration from Star Wars. Once it hits production lines, it will be christened as Bao 3.
Specifically designed to attract younger consumers, the Super 3 features a futuristic design and a drone landing pad on the roof for a unique "car-to-sky" experience.
The vehicle is set to make its first public appearance at Auto China 2024 next week.
Future plans
BYD's forthcoming models and sales expectations
BYD has shared details about other upcoming models alongside the Super 3.
The Bao 8, a larger SUV built on BYD's DMO platform, is being positioned as a competitor to the Toyota Land Cruiser with prices around $69,000.
The Super 9 is a specialized sports car with a futuristic space-cockpit interior design.
With the launch of new models across various categories including low-cost, luxury, mid-size SUVs, pickups, and sports cars, the automaker expects sales to surge by over 20%.