BYD Philippines continues to expand its DM-i lineup with the latest addition to its familiar Dynasty Series. The all-new Tang DM-i debuts as the flagship SUV’s plug-in hybrid variant. According to the Chinese EV maker, this latest release is positioned as a seven-seater mid-size SUV within its growing electrified fleet.
“With the introduction of the all-new BYD Tang DM-i, we are expanding our Super DM-i lineup to address the diverse needs of Filipino families,” said Bob Palanca, Managing Director of BYD Cars Philippines. “As the largest model in our SUV range, the Tang DM-i delivers the space, versatility, and advanced technology that many families look for in an SUV, while reinforcing our commitment to make electric mobility more accessible.“
The BYD DM-i looks
Exterior-wise, the apparent distinction is the fascia’s pronounced grille, which is almost identical to that of the Sealion 5. It also has that familiar horizontal bar with the logo. Other than that, retained were the keen-looking full LED headlamps with integrated DRLs and bumper design. Even the flanks and rear remained the same. Other similar features include LED tail lamps, power-adjustable and folding side mirrors, a power tailgate, roof rails, and rain-sensing wipers.
The wheels sport 20-inch alloys wrapped in 255/50 series tires. Look closer, and the DM-i version received all-around disc brakes with regular brake calipers. Dimension-wise, the Tang DM-i measures 4,870 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width, and 1,725 mm in height, with a wheelbase length of 2,820 mm.
For those seeking more distinction, the Moon Stone Grey color option features an exclusive dark trim finish. All the chrome and metallic finishes on the standard trim were all blackened. With a noticeable black grille and black rims, among other features, the vehicle projected a distinct character. On the other hand, the Pearl White and Silver Sand Black colors remain sleek, thanks to the metallic finishes throughout.
Plush, refreshing, and techy interior
Inside, the soft layout features glossy panels, and gentle lighting. These details go well with the fresh black and grey leather trim and smooth panels. All leather seats have very comfortable side supports and padding. Moreover, the front seats feature heated and ventilated functions, along with eight-way and four-way adjustment controls, respectively. In the 2nd row, seats are not only super-comfortable, but also 60:40 split-fold, while the fold-down third-row seats offer the same comfort. Essentially, the 3rd row’s space, when configured, is more ideal for children, space-wise.
The center dash features a 15.6-inch rotating touch screen with Bluetooth (hands-free calling and audio), Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Other available features include a voice assistant, BYD cloud service, OTA updates, 4G, dual-zone climate control, Dynaudio 12-speaker audio, a panoramic sunroof, coat hangers, ambient lighting, footwells, map lights, charging ports, a center console compartment, and cup holders. Meanwhile, the 12.3-inch instrument cluster displays all the necessary drive information in a high-definition view.
For convenience, the following features are also available: keyless entry, push-button engine start/stop, smart card entry, “Follow Me Home” lights, wireless phone charger, USB charging ports, and a 12-volt socket.
Super DM-i technology
At the heart of the Tang DM-i is BYD’s advanced Super DM-i system. This “electric-first” powertrain seamlessly combines electrified propulsion with a high-efficiency generator, enabling long-distance driving and sending power to the front wheels via an E-CVT. With an output of 267 hp and 315 Nm of torque, the top speed is 200 km/h, and it takes only 7.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h. The range extender motor/generator is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, which enables total driving distance increases up to 1,160 kilometers.
Selectable drive modes available are Economy, Normal, and Sport. Electric juice is provided by a 21.5-kWh ultra-safe Lithium Iron Phosphate Blade Battery rated for up to 110 km of pure electric driving range, based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standard. Plugged in, the BYD DM-i system supports up to 7kW of AC charging, allowing the Blade Battery to reach a full charge from 15 percent in approximately 3 hours. On the other hand, using a DC charger (40kW) will only take 30 minutes from 30 percent to 80 percent.
For added versatility, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality enables the Tang DM-i to power external devices and appliances, making it ideal for outdoor and on-the-go use, as well as for emergencies when electricity is needed. Charging equipment includes a portable charging cable, wall-mounted charger, and Vehicle to Load (V2L) adapter.
Performance and efficiency combined
Like any of BYD’s DM-i models, the Tang DM-i offers guaranteed and impressive fuel efficiency. The DM-i system’s ability to toggle between full EV and HEV modes, as long as the battery charge level is sufficient, enables the vehicle to control its fuel consumption.
Other advantages of BYD’s Super DM-i technology are its consistent dynamics. Once accustomed, even a real-world driving approach while in Eco mode would still deliver good results. Drive any BYD electrified model in the lineup, and the experience is the same—smooth delivery with unquestionable thriftiness in fuel consumption.
A sufficient battery charge level provides the freedom to run in full EV mode. It makes freeway runs blissful, as the Tang’s luxury elements will be in full effect. The ultra-comfortable ventilated seats, articulating cold dual-zone climate control, and the light-themed interior are also there to provide the soothing ambiance.
When the battery charge drops to 25 percent, the system automatically switches to HEV mode. The transition will be so seamless and quiet that it will be like it never happened. Keeping this mode will enable the system to regain a battery charge level up to 70 percent. This flexibility enables drivers to toggle between modes, particularly to EV mode, to tackle climbs effortlessly, without consuming fuel. Whenever there are descents, switching the regenerative braking level to high will help regain that lost energy.
Of course, BYD’s Super DM-i technology is not only about fuel efficiency. The power delivery can be smooth and steady when relaxed, but it can be staggering when pushed. Driving at a steady pace delivers a steady and well-planted feel. Speed increments will be continuous and effortless.
On-road performance with the off-road mode function
The available drive modes provide the necessary throttle response. ECO mode is, of course, the fuel and battery charge saver. The acceleration is moderate and steady. It remains willing to be pushed when needed. But switch to SPORT mode and everything comes alive. Acceleration becomes swift and instantaneous, without hesitation. The steering feedback will correspond to maintaining control. The suspension is supple enough to handle rough paths. It is also stiff enough to retain good form, even on tight turns.
Meanwhile, rolling on dirt, even with slippery portions, no longer poses a challenge, thanks to the Traction Control mode. The function works by reducing torque registration. This prevents unnecessary wheel spin on slippery parts. The available 360-degree camera view, with See-Through Mode, makes passing through tight paths a breeze.
DiPilot ADAS and standard safety features
Advanced safety defines every BYD vehicle. Key functions include a 360-degree camera system with See-Through Mode, an eight-sensor radar (four front and four rear), Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Front and Rear Collision Warning (FCW, RCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Brake (RCTA, RTCB), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Lane Departure Assistance (LDA), Blind Spot Monitoring, Door Opening Warning, and Intelligent High Beam Control.
Standard features include six airbags (front, side, and curtain), ISO-Fix, Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Hold and Descent Control (HHC/HDC), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Dynamic Control, Anti-Rollover Control (RMI), and Brake Override System (BOS).
Pricing and availability
The BYD Tang DMI is available in one trim and in three body colors: Moon Stone Grey, Silver Sand Black, and Pearl White. Priced at P2,098,000, it comes with BYD’s comprehensive warranty suite consisting of an 8 years or 160,000 kilometers for the Blade Battery, 8 years or 150,000 kilometers for the electric motor and control systems, and a 6-year or 150,000-kilometer new vehicle warranty.
