BYD patents new two-door electric microcar designed by Wolfgang Egger – a new rival to smart #2?

BYD could be exploring a new direction in the electric microcar segment. The company has secured a design patent for a new two-door electric model, according to a patent notice published by China's National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) on 10 November.

The design was developed by a team led by Wolfgang Egger, BYD's Global Design Director. Its distinctive proportions and rounded styling set it apart from the brand's existing models.

Design highlights

The patent images show a compact, boxy silhouette with smooth, rounded surfaces. Short front and rear overhangs, together with wheels positioned close to the four corners, give the car a well-proportioned stance while making better use of the available cabin space.

One of the more unusual details is the similarity between the front and rear designs. Both feature a curved overall profile, creating a subtle smile-like appearance that gives the car a recognisable identity.

The patent names several members of the design team. Alongside Egger, who served as Audi Group's Head of Design from 2007 to 2013, overseeing the design direction of Audi and Lamborghini, the team includes Zhao Binggen, General Manager of BYD's Dynasty Network Sales Division and Head of the Dynasty Research Institute, as well as Xu Ziyan, Huang Xi and Zhang Xi.

The involvement of senior figures from BYD's Dynasty division has prompted speculation that the model could eventually join the Dynasty line-up. However, the company has yet to confirm its intended positioning.

A new rival to the smart #2?

BYD already has an extensive new energy vehicle line-up and recently marked the production of its 19-millionth NEV. However, its current entry-level model, the second-generation Seagull, is still more than 4.2 metres long.

Also Read: BYD rolls out its 19 millionth NEV: Fangchengbao Ti9 set for late-November launch

The newly patented two-door car appears to occupy a considerably smaller segment. Its compact proportions and urban-focused design bring to mind the smart #2, the all-electric successor to the original smart fortwo developed by the Geely-Mercedes-Benz joint venture.

Also Read: smart #2 launched in China with 410km range, from approx. RM 61k

That said, the patent only covers the car's exterior design. BYD has not disclosed its dimensions, seating capacity or powertrain specifications, nor has it announced any production plans.

The company has already explored the overseas microcar market with the Racco, an electric kei car developed for Japan. BYD is also looking at opportunities to develop smaller EVs for Europe and other international markets. Technologies such as its X-PACK system, which integrates electronic control components including the inverter into the battery pack, could support these efforts.

For now, it remains unclear whether the newly patented model will reach production. Nevertheless, the design offers an indication of BYD's interest in expanding beyond its established electric car segments and exploring more compact urban models.

Also Read: BYD RACCO electric kei car arrives in Japan from RM 63k – Why it matters?