BYD has introduced the ETT 44, a 44-tonne electric tractor unit designed for Europe’s heavy-duty truck market. Equipped with a 651-kWh Blade Battery using LFP cell technology, the vehicle delivers an advertised range of nearly 600 kilometers and supports rapid charging exceeding 1.5 MW. The launch took place at the IAA Transportation trade show in Hanover, where it became the flagship model of BYD’s European commercial vehicle lineup.
The ETT 44’s battery system enables 420 kW charging via CCS2, allowing an 80% charge in 60 minutes. When paired with MCS charging, the truck achieves over 1.5 MW of power, restoring roughly 400 kilometers of range in just 20 minutes. BYD specifies a continuous drive power of 743 PS and a peak output reaching 1,000 PS. The vehicle’s curb weight varies between 10.95 and 11.14 tonnes, depending on the configuration. The Blade Battery is backed by a ten-year or 1.2 million kilometer warranty, reinforcing its durability.
BYD’s expansion into Europe arrives amid intensifying competition. Although the ETT 44’s 600-kilometer range stands out, it falls short of Volvo’s FH Aero Electric, which claims up to 700 kilometers. Direct comparisons remain challenging due to differences in testing standards. Chinese manufacturers, including Sany, Sinotruk, and Skyworth, are also increasing their presence, further tightening the market.
Alongside the ETT 44, BYD is rolling out 26-tonne rigid 4×2 and 6×2 trucks with swap body and hooklift configurations. The company aims to broaden its European offerings to cover vehicles weighing 3.5 to 44 tonnes, while also providing charging infrastructure, energy storage, and financing options.