By 2015, Toyota's dominance in the hybrid market will most likely face a serious challenge from Honda(japan), BYD(china) and Hyundai (south korea). Below is a summary on one of these potential challengers to the Toyota Prius.
Summary of a Review of the BYD F3DM gas electric plug in hybrid ===================================================Chinese Automaker BYD submit paper work to sell its F3DM, a four door sedan plug-in gas-electric hybrid, in the USA. The BYD F3DM -- which is expected to sell for less than $29,000 (MRSP) -- can run on electric mode for atleast 31 miles with a 16KwH battery and should have gasoline range of 300 miles. BYD plans to initially sell the F3DM to corporate fleets before selling to individual buyers. When the BDY F3DM is sold in the USA the charging system will be upgraded with the SAE-standard J1772 connector found on all new plug in cars. BYD expects to open up five dealerships in 2012. It plans to sell the F3DM along side its all electric car the e6 as well as the electric charging systems and solar panel systems.
source ========== Behind the Wheel: BYD F3DM BYD Is the First Ripple in a Potential Chinese Wave Bradley Berman. The New York Times. Friday, February 18 2011