Daimler and BYD Automotive Industry Co. Ltd. has launched the new DENZA 500 battery electric vehicle, that’s made in China for China, through their joint venture Shenzhen DENZA New Energy Automotive Co. Ltd.
The new DENZA 500 offers a refreshed exterior design and extended electric range of up to 500 km courtesy of a new battery and further weight reductions. The DENZA model combines Daimler’s vehicle architecture expertise and advanced safety engineering with BYD’s battery technology. 
The DENZA 500’s exterior features “tiger eye” LED headlights and rippling LED taillights while inside sees a larger 9-inch touchscreen display. Upgraded connectivity services include charging solutions and the DENZA smartphone application. With the DENZA app, WeChat or the car’s navigation system, DENZA owners can quickly locate over 112,000 charging piles across the country.
The new DENZA 500 was tested in a wide range of harsh conditions, including severe winter testing at temperatures as low as –40 degrees Celsius.
Last year, DENZA achieved its best sales performance, with an 85% increase in sales volume thanks to the strong customer reception of the DENZA 400 model. The brand also expanded its reach through selected Mercedes-Benz dealers, which now offer sales and after-sales service for DENZA vehicles.
Shenzhen DENZA New Energy Automotive Co. Ltd. (DENZA Auto) is a 50:50 joint venture of Daimler Greater China Ltd and BYD Automotive Industry Co. Ltd that was established in 2011. It was the first Sino-German joint venture dedicated to battery electric vehicles. DENZA Auto was also the first electric vehicle manufacturer in China to conduct crash tests according to the C-NCAP standard, receiving a 5-star rating.
