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its fifth generation, promises an impressive average fuel efficiency of 81 miles per gallon in the rather lenient and outdated NEDC testing procedure.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.
BYD’s Latest Plug-In Hybrids Can Go Up To 1,300 Miles
Chinese automobile manufacturer BYD has recently announced the release of their latest line of plug-in hybrid vehicles that boast an impressive range of up to 1,300 miles on a single tank of gas and full charge. This new technology represents a significant advancement in the field of electric vehicle technology, pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible for plug-in hybrids.
The key to this impressive driving range lies in the innovative battery technology used in BYD’s new vehicles. These plug-in hybrids feature high-capacity lithium-ion batteries that can store enough energy to power the vehicle for hundreds of miles on a single charge. Additionally, these vehicles are equipped with efficient gasoline engines that switch on when the battery power is depleted, extending the driving range even further.
In addition to their impressive range, BYD’s latest plug-in hybrids also offer excellent fuel efficiency, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation option. The combination of electric and gasoline power allows drivers to take advantage of the best of both worlds, enjoying the zero-emission benefits of electric driving while also having the flexibility of gasoline power for longer trips.
BYD’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in their latest line of plug-in hybrids. These vehicles represent a significant step forward in the electrification of the automotive industry, offering drivers a practical and efficient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. With a range of up to 1,300 miles, BYD’s plug-in hybrids are a compelling option for environmentally conscious consumers who also require long-distance driving capabilities.
In conclusion, BYD’s latest plug-in hybrids offer an impressive combination of range, efficiency, and sustainability that make them a standout choice in the crowded field of electric vehicles. With a driving range of up to 1,300 miles, these vehicles represent a major advancement in the technology of plug-in hybrids and set a new standard for the industry. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity and acceptance among consumers, BYD’s latest offerings are sure to make a significant impact on the market and solidify the company’s position as a leader in sustainable transportation.