BYD F3DM
The world's first mass-produced plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
- Power
- 168 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$12k
About the BYD F3DM
Launched in December 2008, the BYD F3DM holds the historic title of being the first mass-produced plug-in hybrid (PHEV) available to the public, beating the Chevrolet Volt and Toyota Prius Plug-in to market. Based on the F3 sedan—itself a visual clone of the ninth-generation Toyota Corolla—the 'Dual Mode' system paired a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with a 16 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. While it offered a significant 60-kilometre electric-only range, early sales were restricted to government and corporate fleets before reaching private buyers in 2010. Its significance lies in pioneering the LFP battery technology that now dominates the global EV market.
BYD F3DM specs
The BYD F3DM produces 168 bhp (125 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | BYD |
|---|---|
| Model | F3DM |
| Trim | 1.0 |
| Years | 2008–2013 |
| Type | Electric |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | China |
| Production | About 3,284 built |
| Engine | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder with two electric motors |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 168 bhp (125 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,560 kg (3,439 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 108 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BYD F3DM worth?
A typical BYD F3DM is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $12,000 (about £3,700 – £8,900).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BYD F3DM rarity in CarSpot
The BYD F3DM is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 F3DM fun facts
- The F3DM was the first car to use BYD's proprietary 'Fe' (iron-phosphate) battery technology, which is now a global industry standard for safety and longevity.
- Despite its global significance, only 48 units were sold in its first year of production, all to government agencies and corporate customers in Shenzhen.
- Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway famously bought a 10% stake in BYD just months before the F3DM's official launch, betting on its battery tech.