The BYD Song Plus DM-i was unveiled by the Chinese regulator (MIIT). It has a 1.5-liter self-aspirated ICE and an electric motor for 197 hp. It will hit the market this year, but it looks like BYD can rename it to Frigate 05. Let’s get to know it better.

Appearance and dimensions

First, let’s talk about the styling of the BYD Song Plus DM-i. Just like the previously unveiled BYD Song Plus EV, the PHEV version shares the Marine Aesthetics design language. Its headlights are similar to the BYD Seal. As for the front grille, it is represented by three air slots. There is also a pair of air intakes on the front bumper. Worth mentioning that the Song Plus DM-i hasn’t got the “宋” (Song) hieroglyph at the front end. Instead, it has got the “BYD” inscription that hints on the international market ambitions.

We should also mention that on one of the shots, the BYD Song Plus DM-i is called “护卫舰05” (Frigate 05). It hints that BYD isn’t sure about this car’s naming.

The back of the BYD Song Plus DM-i has a single taillight unit, a sporty roof spoiler and two air intakes. As for the dimensions, they are 4775/1890/1670 mm with a wheelbase of 2765 mm. So it is 10 mm shorter and 10 mm higher than the all-electric version of the Song Plus EV. Comparing to the current generation of the Song Plus DM-i, the new one is 70 mm longer and 10 mm lower.

The curb weight of the Song Plus DM-i is 1830 kg. As for the gross weight, it reaches 2205 kilos. It can fit up to five people inside. Speaking about the wheels of the Song Plus DM-i, there are three options: 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19; 245/45 R20. Its approach and departure angles are 19 and 21 degrees, respectively.

Powertrain and battery

The BYD Song Plus DM-i has a plug-in hybrid system on board. It comprises a 1.5-liter self-aspirated ICE with a code name BYD472QA. This petrol-powered engine has made it to the Top-10 motors. This list was made by China Heart. Its power output is 110 hp. It is paired with the E-CVT and a single electric motor (TZ220XYE) for 145 kW (197 hp).

Lots of BYD cars have this powertrain, including the current generation of the BYD Song Plus DM-i. But the ‘old’ Song Plus has also got a 4WD version with an extra electric motor on the rear axle that generates 120 kW (163 hp). But the new generation will have only front-wheel drive. Speaking about the battery, its capacity is unknown yet. But we do know that it is an LFP battery made by FinDreams, a subsidiary of BYD. Highly likely, the Song Plus DM-i will be equipped with an 18-kWh battery for 85 km of WLTC.

Editor’s comment

Currently, we can see how BYD erases borders between its two series: Dynasty and Ocean. Previously, BYD has shared April’s sales numbers, putting the current generation of the Song Plus in the Ocean Series. But it doesn’t make much sense since it is a part of the Dynasty series. It looks like now BYD has changed its marketing strategy. Anyway, the BYD Song Plus DM-i is a great car with decent styling and good powertrain. So its sales will probably increase in the Chinese market.

Source: MIIT