As Western automakers are shifting their short-term strategies to include more hybrids and plug-in hybrids amid a temporary slowdown in the growth of all-electric vehicle sales, China’s BYD—already a full-EV powerhouse—is already ahead of the curve.
Even if it’s highly unlikely that a BYD-made car will make its way to the United States anytime soon, considering the impending tariff hike on Chinese-made EVs that will kick off on August 1, the company already has a footing in Europe and several other parts of the world.
And these markets will soon benefit from BYD’s fifth-generation plug-in hybrid technology which promises a combined range of up to 1,300 miles. Two new models that use this system were announced this week and we’ll dive into both here.
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BYD’s hybrid game
BYD is China’s largest automaker. It stopped making gasoline-only cars in 2022 to focus on plug-in hybrids and all-electric cars. It’s latest PHEV technology, now in its fifth generation, promises an impressive average fuel efficiency of 81 miles per gallon in the rather lenient and outdated NEDC testing procedure.
We’ll kick off by saying that the impressive range figure is based on the very lenient CLTL testing procedure, which is known to produce figures that are almost impossible to reach in real-world conditions.
Furthermore, BYD claims its new Seal 06 and Qin L sedans–the first to benefit from the latest PHEV tech–can cover that many miles as long as both the high-voltage battery and the fuel tank are filled to the brim.
The two cars are technically identical, featuring a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that makes 99 horsepower (74 kilowatts) and 93 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the trim level, this diminutive combustion engine supplies power to either a 10-kilowatt-hour battery or a 15.8-kilowatt-hour pack.
Gallery: BYD Seal 06 DM-i
The lower-spec versions, which start at the equivalent of $13,750 in China, pair the battery with a 161 hp electric motor and have an NEDC-rated fuel economy of 81 miles per gallon, while the electric efficiency is CLTC-rated at 5.8 miles/kWh. The all-electric range is CLTC-rated at 49 miles.
The fancier trims that get the larger battery have a more powerful electric motor that makes 214 hp, enabling an all-electric range of 74 miles (CLTC) on a full charge.
Gallery: BYD Qin L DM-i
BYD claims the efficiency gains compared to the previous-generation PHEV system come courtesy of an artificial intelligence-enabled energy consumption management system, which is likely a fancy way of saying there’s a computer that decides when to shut off the gas engine and let the electric motor do its thing.
Inside, both the Seal 06 and the Qin L get a large digital instrument cluster and a rotating infotainment touchscreen as standard, while the optional equipment list includes things like a panoramic sunroof, a Level-2 capable advanced driving assistance system and heated and ventilated seats.
Electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has once again set a new benchmark in the realm of plug-in hybrid technology with the release of its latest models, which can achieve an impressive range of up to 1,300 miles on a single charge. By combining the versatility of a combustion engine with the efficiency of electric power, these vehicles offer a compelling solution for drivers looking to minimize their carbon footprint without compromising on performance or convenience.
With a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, the demand for electric vehicles has been steadily increasing in recent years. However, range anxiety remains a major concern for many consumers, particularly for those who rely on their vehicles for long-distance travel. BYD’s latest plug-in hybrids address this issue by offering an extended range that rivals even the most fuel-efficient combustion vehicles on the market.
The key to the impressive range of BYD’s plug-in hybrids lies in their innovative dual-engine system, which seamlessly switches between the combustion engine and electric motor to maximize efficiency and performance. This dual-engine technology allows the vehicles to achieve impressive fuel economy without compromising on power or acceleration, making them a versatile and practical option for drivers with diverse needs.
In addition to their exceptional range, BYD’s plug-in hybrids also come equipped with a range of advanced features and amenities that deliver a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. From state-of-the-art infotainment systems to advanced safety features, these vehicles are designed to meet the needs of modern consumers who expect both sustainability and luxury in their vehicles.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, BYD’s latest plug-in hybrids represent a significant step forward in the development of sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. By offering an extended range that meets the needs of even the most demanding drivers, these vehicles demonstrate BYD’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of electric vehicle technology.
In conclusion, BYD’s latest plug-in hybrids are a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles, offering an impressive range of up to 1,300 miles on a single charge. With their innovative dual-engine technology, advanced features, and luxurious amenities, these vehicles set a new standard for performance, efficiency, and sustainability in the automotive industry. As more consumers embrace electric vehicles as a viable alternative to traditional combustion vehicles, BYD’s plug-in hybrids are poised to lead the way towards a greener, more sustainable future.