Amidst power outages caused by storms and flash flooding on 25th December 2023 in Australia, an electric vehicle (EV) owner on the Gold Coast utilised her car’s emergency power system to run her 11-year-old son’s life-saving dialysis machine.
Kristy Holmes, a resident of the Gold Coast, utilised her BYD electric car, equipped with a “vehicle to load” system, allowing the EV to function as an emergency power source for various devices.
The unexpected blackout prompted Holmes to initially assist her neighbours by connecting their refrigerators to her EV. However, as the power outage persisted, she realised that her BYD Atto 3, purchased in February, could potentially power her 11-year-old son Levi’s life-saving dialysis machine. Taking a decisive step, Holmes successfully ran the dialysis machine off the car’s power, ensuring that Levi, who is on the verge of joining a transplant list, received critical treatment despite the adverse weather conditions.
Pengeluar automotif China, BYD, telah mencapai pencapaian luar biasa dengan menjual jumlah rekod sebanyak 3,024,417 kenderaan tenaga baru (NEVs) pada tahun 2023, menunjukkan peningkatan tahunan yang signifikan sebanyak 62.3%. Ini melebihi jualan tahun sebelumnya sebanyak 1,863,494 NEVs. Pertumbuhan ini dapat diterangkan oleh tumpuan BYD dalam pengeluaran NEV, dengan jumlah pengeluaran sebanyak 3,045,231 unit pada tahun 2023, mencerminkan peningkatan sebanyak 62.2% dari tahun sebelumnya.
Segmen kenderaan komersial, termasuk bas elektrik dan trak, memainkan peranan penting, dengan jualan mencapai 11,511 unit dan mengalami peningkatan sebanyak 88.2%. Dalam perniagaan kereta penumpang, BYD menjual sebanyak 3,012,906 unit, menandakan peningkatan sebanyak 62.2% dari tahun ke tahun. Model elektrik tulen, sejumlah 1,574,822 unit, menunjukkan pertumbuhan kukuh sebanyak 72.8%, menyumbang 52.3% daripada jumlah jualan kereta penumpang secara keseluruhan.
Model plug-in hibrid juga menunjukkan pertumbuhan yang ketara, dengan jualan mencapai 1,438,084 unit, peningkatan sebanyak 52.0% dari tahun ke tahun. Jualan kenderaan elektrik BYD di luar negara juga mengalami pertumbuhan yang luar biasa, mencapai 242,766 kenderaan yang dijual di luar China pada tahun 2023, menunjukkan peningkatan sebanyak 334% dari tahun ke tahun.
Matlamat ambisius BYD untuk menjual 3 juta kenderaan pada tahun 2023, yang pada awalnya disertai dengan keraguan, tidak hanya dicapai tetapi dilampaui. Untuk meraikan pencapaian ini, BYD menyediakan subsidi kepada semua pengedar dalam negara, menawarkan ganjaran sebanyak 666 yuan (RM430) untuk setiap kereta yang dijual pada tahun 2023, menandakan pencapaian penting dalam perjalanan automotifnya.
Chinese automaker BYD has reported a significant milestone in its electric vehicle (EV) sales, with a record-breaking 3,024,417 new energy vehicles sold in 2023. This figure represents a remarkable year-on-year increase of 62.3%, surpassing the previous year’s sales record of 1,863,494 vehicles.
The impressive growth in sales is attributed to BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicle production, with 3,045,231 units manufactured in 2023—a 62.2% increase compared to the previous year. The commercial vehicle segment played a crucial role, recording sales of 11,511 units, including electric buses, trucks, and other vehicles, experiencing a notable uptick of 88.2%.
In the passenger car business, BYD’s sales reached 3,012,906 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 62.2%. Notably, the sales of pure electric models surged, totalling 1,574,822 units with a robust year-on-year growth of 72.8%. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 52.3% of total passenger car sales, reflecting increasing consumer preference for electric mobility.
BYD has unveiled its latest offering, the Sea Lion 07, marking its entry into the mid-size urban electric SUV segment. Revealed at the 2023 Guangzhou International Auto Show, the Sea Lion 07 signifies BYD’s intent to compete with Tesla in a new automotive category.
Designed under the leadership of Wolfgang Egger, former chief designer at Audi and Lamborghini, the Sea Lion 07 showcases a distinctive five-spoke design inspired by sea lions jumping into the water. The unveiling follows a teaser campaign by BYD in the lead-up to the auto show.
Part of BYD’s Ocean series, which includes the Dolphin hatchback and Seal sedan, the Sea Lion 07 is set to define a “new” style within the series and will introduce a new sub-brand of EVs. The dimensions of the Sea Lion 07—4,830 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height—position it as a competitor to Tesla’s Model Y (length – 4,760 mm, width – 1,921 mm, height – 1,624 mm).
Built on BYD’s e-platform 3.0, the Sea Lion incorporates the 8-in-1 electric powertrain, with BYD claiming improvements in range, safety, and performance in low temperatures. While detailed interior photos and technical specifications are yet to be released, reports suggest it will be available in single-motor front-wheel drive or dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations.
In China, the Sea Lion 07 is priced from 200,000 yuan (approximately RM130k), making it a competitive option against the Tesla Model Y, which is priced at 266,400 yuan (RM173k) in the Chinese market. Given the fact that we have a model from BYD’s Ocean series, the Dolphin, the Sea Lion 07 could potentially enter the Malaysian market, where the Model Y is already available starting at RM199k.
BYD has been experiencing substantial success in the EV market, having sold over 165,500 fully electric vehicles in October alone and surpassing 1.2 million EVs sold in the current year. The company is aiming to close the gap with Tesla, which delivered 435,059 vehicles in the third quarter, and BYD came within 3,500 units of surpassing Tesla’s Q3 deliveries with 431,603 EVs. The introduction of the Sea Lion 07 reflects BYD’s ambitious plans to further challenge Tesla’s dominance in the electric vehicle market.
BYD is gearing up to reveal its latest addition to the family of battery-electric vehicles, the Sea Lion 07. The unveiling is scheduled for November 17 at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China. Teasers in the form of sketches suggest that the Sea Lion 07 will join BYD’s ‘Ocean’ series, which already features models like the Seal, Dolphin, and Seagull.
Design cues for the Sea Lion 07 seem to draw inspiration from BYD’s Ocean-X sedan concept. Led by former Audi and Lamborghini designer Wolfgang Egger, the Sea Lion exhibits a compact SUV design, distinguishing itself from its predecessors like the Seal SUV. The front showcases sharp LED headlights and daytime running lights, contributing to a more aggressive look with angular air intakes.
A side sketch of the Sea Lion 07 reveals a coupe SUV silhouette, marked by dramatic curves and creases along the doors. While reminiscent of the Cupra Formentor, the BYD model positions its cabin farther forward. The rear design features aggressive elements with sharp edges and angular LED taillights, akin to the Atto 3.
Technical specifications are yet to be disclosed, leaving enthusiasts curious about its capabilities. However, early estimations suggest a starting price of around 190,000 yuan (RM122k). Closer to home, from the ‘Ocean’ lineup, we have the BYD Dolphin from RM99,900. Click here to find out why it should be your first EV.
BYD officially launched its latest offering, the BAO 5, under the specialised sub-brand FANGCHENGBAO. Positioned as a “Super Hybrid Hardcore SUV,” the BAO 5 stands out with cutting-edge technology, off-road prowess, and a commitment to energy efficiency.
The BAO 5 introduces the Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) Super Hybrid Platform, a revolutionary predominantly electric-driven, professional-grade off-road system. With an unparalleled combination of power sources, it features the world’s first longitudinal EHS electric hybrid system, an off-road rear-drive powertrain, and a potent longitudinal 1.5T high-performance engine. This configuration delivers an impressive 677hp of power and 760Nm of combined torque, enabling the BAO 5 to accelerate from 0 to 100km in just four seconds.
Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the BAO 5 showcases exceptional off-road capabilities with a millisecond-response electric four-wheel drive system offering 16 driving modes. This allows effortless navigation across diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to swampy landscapes, while maintaining an impressive minimum turning radius of 3.4 meters.
Ensuring robustness and safety, the BAO 5 features a Non-Load-Bearing Frame with Cell To Chassis (CTC) technology, providing a lower center of mass and a balanced 50:50 axle load ratio. The chassis is reinforced with 96% high-strength steel to prioritize user safety. The vehicle incorporates the ultra-safe blade battery and is equipped with an L2+ Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) for enhanced safety.
Inside the smart cockpit, the BAO 5 offers a luxurious driving experience with the exclusive FiLink UI, supporting multi-screen interconnection and gesture operation. Users can personalise their experience with various customisation options, including paint colours, interior schemes, wheel hub sizes, and pedal choices. Nappa leather seats and an 18-speaker Devialet audio system further elevate the driving experience.
Leveraging the advantages of the DMO platform, the BAO 5 achieves a Comprehensive Long Trip Capability (CLTC) range of up to 1,200km. This, combined with a 6kW vehicle-to-load (VTL) discharge capability and an optional 2.5-ton trailer hitch, enhances the vehicle’s suitability for extended outdoor activities.
FANGCHENGBAO’s strategic focus on professionalism and individuality is evident with the BAO 5 launch. The brand operates various store types, including sales service centres, MINI centres, and retail centres, catering to diverse consumer needs. The BAO 5 joins FANGCHENGBAO’s product lineup, alongside the previously unveiled BAO 8 and BAO 3 models.
BYD, a leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, has unveiled a new showroom in Malaysia through its local dealer, Hong Thai Motor Trading Sdn. Bhd. This showroom, situated in Alor Setar, Kedah, is aimed at increasing accessibility to BYD electric vehicles (EVs) for local residents.
The newly established showroom operates as a comprehensive 3S service centre, offering sales, service, and spare parts assistance to customers. It’s equipped with five service bays and three dedicated customer service officers, enhancing convenience for both prospective and existing BYD EV owners by providing a one-stop destination for vehicle experiences, as well as service and maintenance.
On September 22, BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles, marked a significant milestone with the production of its 500,000th BYD Dolphin, solidifying its position as the top-selling A0-level hatchback in China for 19 consecutive months since its debut in August 2021.
The BYD Dolphin’s impact extends globally, providing green mobility to customers worldwide. After its successful launch in Brazil in June 2023, it quickly became the best-selling EV in August, setting a new record for electric vehicle sales in the country. In Thailand, it achieved fifth place in EV sales within its first month on the market, selling 481 units. The Dolphin also completed a successful test drive event in the UK, receiving acclaim from the media.
The new U8 Premium Edition from BYD’s Yangwang division is making its mark in the Chinese market, showcasing a luxurious SUV with a body-on-frame design.
Drawing inspiration from the standard U8, this edition embraces an exterior reminiscent of the Land Rover Defender, highlighted by 20- or 22-inch wheels, a ‘floating’ roof, flush-mounted door handles, and an octagonal spare tire cover.
Inside, it boasts advanced technology, including 23.6-inch displays for both the driver and front passenger. The cabin is also equipped with a prominent 12.8-inch infotainment system in a portrait orientation. Furthermore, a dual-screen rear entertainment system and a display integrated into the second-row armrest contribute to the overall immersive experience for passengers.
While BYD is already a dominant force in the electric vehicle market in China, its expansion into Western markets, particularly Europe, positions it in direct competition with established giants like Mercedes, BMW, and Volkswagen.
The BYD Han, in particular, stands as a significant model in this expansion, directly competing with renowned vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan and the BMW i5. The Han boasts an impressive set of features on paper, offering all-wheel drive, an extensive electric range of 521km on the WLTP cycle, and a competitive pricing strategy that positions it favorably against its rivals. This move by BYD signifies a strategic push to establish a strong presence and gain a significant market share in Europe’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
