BYTON debuted its first drivable concept car at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
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With a unique digital design and innovative human-vehicle interaction, it was built for the coming era of truly shared, smart mobility and autonomous driving. BYTON Concept is a mid-size premium smart electric SUV, measuring 4,850 mm (15.9 ft), with a wheelbase of 2,945mm (9.6 ft) and a wheel size of 22 inches. Its exterior design reflects the SUV’s robust style and distinctive proportions, with a loping roof line and green house tapering for optimized aerodynamics.
BYTON Concept leverages Smart Surfaces beginning with the front grill. LED lights throughout the front highlight the luminescent logo in the middle, along with connecting lines and dots that can switch to different display modes to suit different driving scenarios as well as communicate with users and pedestrians. The rear of the car also adapts the Smart Surfaces design. Three facial recognition cameras are embedded in the B-pillar on both sides of the car. Side-view cameras replace traditional side mirrors.
BYTON Concept also includes an invisible door handle and perfectly integrated antennas. The new SUV leverages Electric Vehicle architecture to maximize space. A flat floor and absence of a center console convey openness to all cabin occupants. Individually adjustable seats provide sofa-like comfort and luxury akin to a premium lounge. BYTON is equipped with multiple screens including a Shared Experience Display replacing the central console in traditional cars. Driver Tablet and two display screens on the rear-seat entertainment system integrate other content and features as part of the lounge.
The most eye-catching feature is the Shared Experience Display: Its 125 x 25 cm (49 x 9.8 in) screen automatically adjusts brightness according to changes in light, with a unique horizontal layout enabling content shown to be shared with other passengers in the car. BYTON’s production car will have two range options for endurance: a rearwheel drive model with a 71 kwh battery pack and a driving range of 400 km, or a four-wheel drive model with a 95 kwh battery pack and driving range up to 520 km (323 miles). Its price will start at $45,000. The car will be available in China towards the end of 2019, and in the U.S. and Europe in 2020. ■
