Coda Automotive

The company's primary business revolved around two key areas: the design and assembly of lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery systems and the production of an all-electric car. A significant milestone was the 2009 formation of LIO Energy Systems, a joint venture with battery manufacturer Lishen. This venture, later renamed Coda Energy, was established to design, manufacture, and sell battery systems not only for Coda's own vehicle but also for other automotive OEMs and utility-scale power storage applications. The automotive operation's revenue model was based on the direct sale of its electric vehicle to consumers.

Coda's sole vehicle offering was the Coda Sedan, a four-door, five-passenger electric car. The vehicle was built upon the chassis of the Hafei Saibao, a car designed by Pininfarina, which was adapted for an electric powertrain. It was powered by a 31 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, which featured an active thermal management system to enhance performance and durability. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rated the car's range at 88 miles, which was competitive in its class at the time, and its combined fuel economy at 73 miles per gallon equivalent. A key feature was its 6.6 kW onboard charger, allowing for a full charge in under six hours from a 220V source. After multiple delays, the Coda Sedan was released in March 2012, with sales exclusively in California at a starting price of $37,250 before incentives. However, sales were slow, with only about 117 units delivered. Faced with financial difficulties and low sales, Coda Automotive filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2013, ceasing its car manufacturing operations to focus solely on its Coda Energy subsidiary. The company's remaining automotive assets were eventually acquired.