BYD could add even more models to its line-up with Denza D9 twinning BYD M9 and massive V9 approved by the Australian government

James Cleary

Deputy Editor

3 min read

If technical approvals issued by the Federal Government are any indication BYD is about to make two additions to its local line-up in the shape of the M9 luxury hybrid people mover and V9 large pure-electric commercial van.

Badged BYD Xia in its Chinese domestic market, the seven-seat M9 is essentially a dressed-down version of the pure-electric Denza D9 people mover.

It's set to be introduced in two grades here both using the same ‘DM-i’ Range Extender Electric Vehicle (REEV) powertrain combining electric propulsion with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine operating as a battery generator only. Drive goes to the front wheels only via single-speed auto transmission.

Read More About BYD

A substantial machine, measuring more than 5.1m long, close to 2.0m wide and more than 1.8m tall with a 3045mm wheelbase, its arrival will surely rattle the cage of premium electrified rivals like the GAC M8, Zeekr 009, XPeng X9 and Lexus LM, not to mention its recently released Denza D9 corporate cousin.

The base M9 features a 20.4kWh LFP battery and 191kW version of the generator engine for a 100km electric-only range according to the more lenient CLTC protocol. While the top-spec version ups battery capacity to 36.6kWh and engine power to 218kW with a CLTC EV range of 218km. Official fuel consumption for the flagship is 4.9-5.0L/100km and claimed combined (petrol-electric) range is 1163km.  

With the M9 priced between ¥206,800 (A$42,300) and ¥269,800 (A$55,200), standard features in China include 128-colour ambient lighting, a fragrance system, up to 28-speaker audio, a 15.6-inch central multimedia display, 12.3-inch instrument screen and a 26-inch head-up display with a 12.3-inch passenger entertainment screen optional.

The seat arrangement is ‘2+2+3’ with the front power seats heated and ventilated with a massage function. Second-row captain’s chairs feature extending leg support, folding tables, ventilation and integrated audio while the reclining third row can be folded electrically and the boot measures a useful 470 litres with all seats up. 

Meanwhile, the BYD V9 van (badged E-Vali in other export markets) is powered by a 150kW/550Nm electric motor, measures a fraction under 7.0m long and close to 2.8m tall with a 4550mm wheelbase for a cargo volume of up to 17.9 cubic metres. 

So, big EV rivals like the Farizon SV, Ford Transit BEV, LDV eDeliver 9, VW e-Transporter and even the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter will be in its sights.

A gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 4250kg and a tare weight of 2920kg translate to a total load capacity of 1330kg and braked trailer towing capacity is a useful 1.5 tonnes.

The battery is likely a 126kWh LFP unit with the van boasting a maximum 188kW charge capacity.

BYD Australia has been contacted for comment on the M9 and V9’s potential launch timing, price and local specification.

James Cleary

Deputy Editor

As a small boy James often sat on a lounge with three shoes in front of him, a ruler between the cushions, and a circular drinks tray in his hands. He would then play ‘drivings’, happily heading to destinations unknown for hours on end. He’s since owned many cars, raced a few, and driven (literally) thousands of them at all points of the globe. He’s steered around and across Australia multiple times, spent time as an advanced driving instructor, and had the opportunity to experience rare and valuable classics here and overseas. His time in motoring journalism has included stints at national and international titles including Motor, Wheels and TopGear, and when asked to nominate a career highlight, James says interviewing industry legend Gordon Murray, in the paddock at the 1989 Australian Formula One Grand Prix was amazing, especially as Murray waived away a hovering Ayrton Senna to complete the conversation. As Deputy Editor, James manages everything from sub-editing to back-end content while creating written and video product reviews.
About Author

Comments