- BYD had already filed four new cars under the Linghui brand last month, all based on existing models.
- The independent sub-brand helps mitigate potential image concerns stemming from BYD models being widely used in ride-hailing services.
BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY) has formally announced the creation of Linghui, a sub-brand for the ride-hailing market and corporate clients, following last month's filing of multiple new models under the brand.
The Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) giant announced the Linghui brand on Weibo Monday, stating it will pioneer "ultra-value mobility."
"A car carries not just luggage and aspirations, but also supports every striving individual shining brightly," Linghui wrote in its inaugural Weibo post.
BYD's current lineup includes the Dynasty lineup and Ocean lineup — the former named after ancient Chinese dynasties, the latter inspired by marine life and naval vessels.
Meanwhile, BYD's e-series models fall under its commercial vehicle division, primarily targeting the ride-hailing market.
In the latest regulatory catalog released by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on January 8, BYD filed for the Linghui e5, Linghui e7, Linghui e9, and Linghui M9 — all featuring the new brand logo.
These models are built on BYD's existing models, while the independent sub-brand helps mitigate potential image concerns stemming from the widespread use of BYD models in ride-hailing services.
BYD offers a wide range of models in the affordable market, many of which have become preferred choices for ride-hailing services due to their operational cost-effectiveness.
However, this could potentially drag on BYD's brand image, especially as it explores the luxury market.
The Linghui e9 is based on the BYD Han sedan, the Linghui e7 on the Sealion 06 EV, the Linghui e5 on the Qin Plus EV, and the Linghui M9 on the BYD Xia MPV (multi-purpose vehicle).
