Spied: Daimler-BYD joint-venture’s first car

Three low-resolution spy shots have prematurely revealed Daimler and Chinese partner BYD’s first regular-production vehicle ahead of its scheduled debut at next month’s Beijing Motor Show. Sold by the newly-formed Denza brand, the car will be exclusively distributed in China.

The images confirm the yet-unnamed car is loosely inspired by the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) concept that bowed at the 2012 edition of the show. The concept’s arched roof line and sculpted flanks have been retained, but the production car gains a more realistic front fascia and loses the show car’s suicide rear doors.

Interior pictures are not available but the car will likely get an upscale cockpit crafted with high-quality materials in order to take on the top end of the EV market.

Denza has revealed the car rides on a modified version of the last-gen Mercedes B-Class’ platform. Technical details are being kept under wraps but rumors indicate it will be powered by an all-electric drivetrain consisting of a lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor that spins the front wheels.