BYD Launches ETT 44 Electric Truck With Fast Charge and 372-Mile Range

Chinese EV manufacturer BYD has launched the ETT 44, a heavy-duty electric truck with a stated range almost 50 miles greater than the Europe-bound Tesla Semi and a shorter fast-charging time.

BYD ETT 44

The ETT 44 is a 4×2 tractor that, together with its trailer and cargo, can weigh up to 44 tonnes. It has a top speed of 56 mph and comes with driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and blind spot detection.

BYD says the truck can travel up to 372 miles on a single charge, compared with 325 miles for the Tesla Semi. The ETT 44 uses a 651 kWh lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery, and its powertrain produces 743 PS, reaching 1,000 PS at peak output.

Megawatt Charging

BYD’s Megawatt Charging System supplies more than 1.5 MW of power and can take the ETT 44 from 20% to 80% charge in 20 minutes, providing about 248 miles of range. With CCS2 DC charging at up to 420 kW, the same charge takes no more than 60 minutes. A Tesla Megacharger, in comparison, can add 60% battery capacity to the Semi in 30 minutes.

BYD’s plans include setting up a factory in Europe and starting production of the ETT 44 in China later this year, while Tesla expects European Semi deliveries to begin in late 2027.

Image credit: BYD

credit: Thomas