Daimler and BYD introduce Denza brand for battery-electric vehicles

Denza logo. Click to enlarge.

BYD Daimler New Technology Co. Ltd. (BDNT), the 50:50 joint venture between Daimler and BYD (earlier post) formally revealed in Shenzhen at the “EV – The Future” event its new Denza brand of electric vehicles developed in China, for the Chinese market.

The Denza brand launch event is the latest milestone in the cooperation between Daimler and BYD. Following the BDNT joint venture contract signing in May 2010 and granting of the China business license in March 2011, development has been progressing on schedule, according to the partners.

BYD and Daimler have been visionaries in the development of sustainable mobility and new technologies. We are at the forefront in China as the first company to form a joint venture for the development of a pure electric vehicle, and we’re continuing our pace forward with this landmark event today.

—Ulrich Walker, Chairman & CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia and Chairman of the Board of Directors of BDNT

We have the ideal partner in Daimler. BYD provides experience in battery technology and e-drive systems, as well as bringing EVs into operation on the streets of China. In connection with Daimler’s design of premium autos, know-how in electric vehicle architecture and safety, and more than 125 years of experience in automotive excellence, DENZA is on the right track to become the leader in the New Energy Vehicle market in China.

—Wang Chuanfu, Chairman and President of BYD and Member of the Board of Directors of BDNT

Primarily created with a focus on Chinese consumers, the name Denza is derived from the Chinese characters 腾势 (téng shì), which together mean “rising power and momentum”—referring both to the attributes of the car as well as the pace of development Denza aims to be ahead in the New Energy Vehicle industry. Denza is also a distinctive name in the English language with no prior associations.

The logo is designed around the flowing form of a central water-drop, supported by two hands. The blue water-drop represents the environmental friendliness of the all-electric vehicle, with blue also signifying advanced technology and a bright future. The curves on either side of the water-drop represent the hands of the two partners providing mutual support for the joint venture, as well as for the environment.

The first public appearance of the Denza concept car will be at Auto China in Beijing in April, with first production planned in 2013.

Source: Green Car Congress