BYD has taken the covers off its pure-electric E-VALI light commercial vehicle (LCV), which had its global debut at IAA Transportation 2024 in Hannover.
Designed specifically for the European market and to meet the needs of last-mile and parcel delivery services, the BYD E-VALI (3.5t or 4.25t) aims to deliver world-leading innovation in EV technologies to the LCV sector. The BYD E-VALI has a range of 220-250km (WLTP) and can be fast charged from 10-80% in around 30 minutes.
The E-VALI, which sports the new design language for BYD light commercial vehicles, stands out also for its extra-large cargo volume capacity, up to 17.9 square metres for 4.25t model, with an equally large payload of 1450kg (depending on size variant) optimizing productivity for busy delivery fleets. Additionally, there is the convenience of a sliding side door for loading and unloading, with wide opening hinged rear doors, as well as folding seats to maximize space.
There is sufficient height for the driver to stand upright to enter the van without the need for bending, further alleviating the physical strain of loading and unloading cargo. A bulkhead door separates the driver and passenger cabin from the main cargo area for enhanced safety and comfort.
Comfortable, connected technology-rich interior
Clean flowing lines and a minimalistic theme continue within the interior of the vehicle without compromising comfort and practicality. The cabin has a high-tech feel, enhanced by a modern instrument panel and large touchscreen. This creates a focal point of the interior, forming a control hub for infotainment and BYD intelligent 4G connected experiences including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto with Over The Air (OTA) updates as part of the iCloud service, with the benefit of voice recognition. The touchscreen can be viewed ‘split screen’ mode so the driver can focus on driving, while passengers can still enjoy their preferred infotainment. There is also the accompanying BYD App which provides a host of features and remote functionality, for monitoring vehicle status.
The dashboard has flowing contours and is designed to ensure that controls are within easy reach. The console integrates various functions such as mobile phone wireless charging and gear shift lever, saving a lot of space in the vehicle.
Electrically adjustable seats are a standard feature and have been ergonomically designed to reduce wrapping to make it easier for drivers, such as couriers, to get in and out of the van. There is also a multifunction steering wheel as standard. Ensuring comfort for the driver and passengers, the BYD E-VALI features a handy foldable table neatly concealed with the centre console, an in-car refrigerator/cool box, cup holders and an abundance of useful storage boxes and pockets, as well as various USB ports for wireless charging.
Comprehensive Driver Assistance as standard
The BYD E-VALI offers comprehensive ADAS as standard, to make driving safer and more pleasurable, such as Adaptive Cruise Control & Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Comfort Stop, Rollover Control System, Hill Decent Control, Indirect Driver Fatigue Management, Hill Hold Control.
The BYD E-VALI is equipped with the latest BYD Blade Battery technology, which offers elevated safety performance, durability and efficiency, together with a longer range and extended lifecycle. The cobalt-free 80.64 kWh Blade Battery uses Lithium Iron-Phosphate (LFP) as its cathode material, which offers a much higher level of safety than lithium-ion batteries.
Innovation extends to the high-efficiency 6-in-1 electric powertrain Such innovation developed by BYD integrates the Motor Controller Unit; the Drive Motor; the Gearbox; the Battery Management System; the Vehicle Control Unit; the Power Distribution Unit in one simple module for ease of maintenance, maximizes cargo space, and minimizes cargo floor height from the ground (ground clearance).
An advanced energy saving heat pump is a standard feature too, further enhancing thermal management and performance in all climatic conditions.