.jpg)
Rumours are circling about BYD’s next-generation plug-in hybrid technology that could blow the competition out of the water.
Chinese motoring media are reporting the set-up will be called DM-i 6.0, but there is no official word from BYD yet.
This new plug-in hybrid set-up is believed to deliver an all-electric driving range of up to 300km, according to the more generous China Light-duty Test Cycle (CLTC).
That is a jump of about 50 per cent on BYD’s longest legged plug-in hybrids that it claims can travel about 200km.
That kind of range pushes plug-in hybrids closer to full EV capability. Most other plug-in hybrids struggle to hit the 100km mark for full EV driving.
A new version of BYD’s Lithium-Ferro-Phosphate (LFP) battery is the key to this huge boost.
This new battery is rumoured to be a new version of a “semi-solid state” battery, which is nothing like a solid state battery.
It differs from regular batteries, which have a gel or liquid electrolyte, by adding a few floating chunks into the mix.
The result is slightly improved energy density, but still a long way off what is promised for solid-state batteries.
Hyper fast charging is expected thanks to the addition of 900-Volt electrical architecture, which could result in charging speeds exceeding 400kW.
A more powerful electric motor is expected and improvements to the petrol engine are believed to make it more fuel efficient and reduce emissions.
BYD is rapidly expanding its range of plug-in hybrids in Australia.
In the past 12 months the company has launched the Shark 6 ute to complement its Sealion 6 mid-size SUV.
These two will be joined by the Sealion 8 large SUV, Sealion 5 compact SUV and a new Seal 6 sedan and wagon that have been approved for sale in Australia.
BYD’s premium sub-brand Denza is adding the off-road focused B5 and B8 plug-in hybrids to take on the Toyota Prado and LandCruiser this year, too.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)
.jpg)
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
