BYD e6 (1st generation)
The pioneering Chinese electric taxi that caught Warren Buffett's eye.
- Power
- 121 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
About the BYD e6
The BYD e6 was one of the first serious attempts at a long-range mass-market electric vehicle, famously backed by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway. Launched initially for taxi fleets in Shenzhen before reaching retail customers in 2011, it utilised a heavy but durable 61kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 'Fe' battery. While its performance was modest and its styling derivative of Japanese MPVs, it offered a then-impressive range of 300km (NEDC). It served as a crucial proof-of-concept for BYD's transition from a battery manufacturer to a global automotive powerhouse.
BYD e6 specs
The BYD e6 produces 121 bhp (90 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | BYD |
|---|---|
| Model | e6 |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | EV |
| Years | 2009–2021 |
| Type | Electric |
| Body style | MPV |
| Country | China |
| Production | About 34,862 built |
| Engine | Single permanent magnet synchronous motor |
|---|---|
| Induction | Electric |
| Power | 121 bhp (90 kW) |
| Torque | 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | Single-speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,020 kg (4,453 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 60 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
BYD e6 rarity in CarSpot
The BYD e6 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BYD e6 fun facts
- The e6 was the best-selling pure electric car in China in 2016, seven years after its initial debut.
- Early taxi units in Shenzhen were reported to have covered over 500,000 kilometres with minimal battery degradation.
- Despite multiple announcements and fleet trials in Los Angeles, the first-generation e6 was never officially sold to retail customers in the United States.