BYD continues electrification of its ICE models as NEVs sell like hotcakes in China. So now Song Pro comes as a DM-i PHEV. BYD labels its new hybrid cars with a DM-i tag, so the new car’s name is Song Pro DM-i (2022). M-i is also the name of the hybrid power system. DM stands for the dual motor. Although it is a plug-in hybrid, it is more inclined to Toyota’s ‘dual engine’ technology (HSD). The electric motor helps ICE in the process of starting, accelerating, and coasting. It provides a small amount of power. It allows both ICE and the electric motor to work together to save fuel.
As PHEVs are still trendy in China, so
let’s have a look at this little dragon. As the newest vehicle in the imperial
series, the Song Pro kept using the Dragon Face design in the front end. BYD
Song Pro DM-i uses a more subtle design in the front than Song Plus; the intake
grille looks more robust and rigid than Song Plus. Also, the eagle scratch
shape lamp with a sharp edges engine hood design makes Song Pro look more
aggressive.
A cured and straight waistline across the
side of the entire vehicle to the taillights, in designer’s words, “A flying
dragon.” Song Pro DM-i dimensions are 4650/1860/1700 mm with 2712 wheelbases.
It is quite a regular vehicle size among the competitors. Interior features a
15.6 inches central control display in the middle of the dashboard with the BYD
newest DiLink 4.0 AI online system, providing a multiple entertainment
environment and the overall vehicle OTA functions. The glove box, center
storage box, and handles use soft materials covered, providing a comfortable
drive feeling. The color for the interior also brings a new style shaped the
Song Pro DM-i in a surprise view which kylin brown + heaven grey.
The power system, Song Pro,
has a famous 1.5L plug-in hybrid engine connected with the EHS system. The
power is 173kW, 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 secs. To provide a comfortable drive
feeling, it equips with a CVT-type gearbox. The Blade lithium battery with the
super hybrid system drives Song Pro to 1090 km in full fuel and full battery.
For NEDC pure e-power, it can reach 110 km far. The battery capacity is
18.3kWh. A big surprise is that the Song Pro DM-i added a 3.3 kW power source,
a lifesaver for outdoor travel.
In general, BYD Song Pro, as a regular
hybrid vehicle, has a better performance than other competitors; the appearance
has some different designs but still with some old-school details. The
powertrain system brings a more extended driving range, but CVT sacrificed its
acceleration rate. The Song Pro DM-i should start sales before the end of the year.
The price will be around 150,000 yuan (US$ 23,000).
