The BYD F3DM is described as the world's first mass-produced plug-in hybrid automobile.
BYD began selling the F3DM in China on December 15, 2008, initially targeting government agencies and corporate customers. Its name meant “Dual Mode,” reflecting the ability to operate as an electric car or as a hybrid using its gasoline engine and battery-powered motors.
The sedan used a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine, electric motors, and a 16 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery. BYD claimed an electric range of about 60 miles under specified test conditions, while the gasoline engine extended total driving range. Real-world electric range was lower, commonly reported at roughly 37 miles.
The F3DM is often confused with the BYD Qin because the Qin replaced it after weak sales. The F3DM remained a landmark: it preceded the Chevrolet Volt’s 2010 launch and established BYD as an early large-scale plug-in-hybrid manufacturer, even though production ended around 2013.