Byton’s two concepts, the M-Byte and the K-Byte are
actually perfect examples, as they not only look like they’re from a time
period which hasn’t come to pass, but they also tick all the right boxes when
it comes to powertrain and driver assistance systems.
Inside the M-Byte, boasts a gigantic landscape-oriented infotainment display,
across its dashboard. Actually, gigantic doesn’t even do it justice. It’s a
48-inch full-length screen that runs, pretty much, from pillar to pillar.
According to the EV startup firm, this screen will
actually make it into the production vehicle, unlike the steering wheel
display, which will probably have to take a step back in favor of an airbag.
The system also comes with a customized version of Amazon Alexa, and can help
monitor the heart rate and blood pressure of the occupants.
As for exterior features, even though both concepts
come with “invisible” door handles and side-view cameras, we know that the
production version of the M-Byte will be more traditional in that sense,
ditching both.
While the K-Byte was designed to preview a 2021
production EV sedan, the M-Byte crossover is the one that will reach markets
sooner, with production said to commence this year and U.S. and European sales
slated to begin in 2020.
In entry-level spec, the production version of the
M-Byte will be rear-wheel drive and come with a single electric motor, good for
272 PS and 400 Nm of torque. It will also have a 71 kWh
battery pack, allowing for a range of up to 400 km. The four-wheel
drive variant on the other hand will feature two electric motors, with a
combined output of 475 PS and 710 Nm of torque, its 95 kWh
battery pack allowing it to travel 520 km on a single charge.
Initially, buyers will get Level 3 semi-autonomous
tech on-board the M-Byte, although Level 4 capabilities will arrive later on
via software update.
