BYD Expands PHEV Portfolio With Sealion 06 DM-i and Song Ultra DM-i Launches in China

BYD is accelerating the update cycle of its plug-in hybrid vehicle lineup as the company prepares to launch two major PHEV models in China this week. The 2026 BYD Sealion 06 DM-i is scheduled to officially enter the market on May 26, followed by the BYD Song Ultra DM-i on May 28. The launches reflect the automaker’s strategy to strengthen its position in the increasingly competitive new energy vehicle market while expanding intelligent driving capabilities across more vehicle segments.

2026 BYD Sealion 06 DM-i Receives Range and Smart Feature Upgrades

The upcoming 2026 Sealion 06 DM-i is expected to deliver substantial improvements in battery-electric range, connectivity, and in-cabin comfort technologies. According to local reports, the model’s CLTC pure electric driving range may exceed 300 kilometers, while the total combined range with a full tank and full battery charge is projected to surpass 1,800 kilometers. These figures position the vehicle among the longer-range plug-in hybrid offerings currently available in the Chinese market.

The model will also feature enhanced intelligent driving technologies. Buyers will be able to opt for a LiDAR-equipped configuration integrated with the God’s Eye B driving assistance system. The setup supports advanced capabilities such as city navigation assistance and other intelligent driving functions designed to improve safety and convenience during urban travel conditions.

BYD is additionally focusing on premium comfort features for the new Sealion 06 DM-i. The SUV includes functions such as seat massage capability, a front passenger leg support system, and an integrated fragrance system to improve cabin experience. Display vehicles of the updated model have already started arriving at BYD retail outlets across China ahead of the official market launch.

Song Ultra DM-i Introduces Fifth-Generation Hybrid Technology

The BYD Song Ultra DM-i adopts the company’s latest fifth-generation DM hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-liter engine with an electric drive motor capable of delivering a maximum output of 175 kW. The vehicle will be available with two battery pack configurations designed to meet different customer driving requirements.

Customers can select either a 26.6 kWh battery pack delivering a battery-electric range of 205 kilometers or a larger 38 kWh battery pack capable of achieving up to 310 kilometers of pure electric range. The model maintains a design language similar to the previously launched pure electric variant while targeting the mid-size SUV segment.

The Song Ultra DM-i measures 4,850 mm in length and features a wheelbase of 2,840 mm. The vehicle also supports optional LiDAR integration and is equipped with 27 sensors throughout the body. BYD’s God’s Eye 5.0 intelligent driving platform is included, utilizing reinforcement learning technologies to improve driving assistance performance and adaptive decision-making capabilities.

Interior and Smart Cabin Features Target Younger Buyers

The cabin design of the Song Ultra DM-i adopts a modern and minimalist approach focused on technology integration and user interaction. The vehicle features a 15.6-inch central infotainment display combined with four-zone voice interaction functionality and wireless smartphone charging support. BYD has also introduced premium convenience features including a knock-to-unlock front trunk mechanism along with ventilated and heated front seats.

The launch of the two new plug-in hybrid models complements BYD’s broader product expansion strategy. Earlier in March, the automaker introduced the 2026 Sealion 06 EV and Song Ultra EV, both positioned as battery electric vehicle offerings. The coordinated rollout of BEV and PHEV products demonstrates the company’s dual-technology approach in addressing varying customer preferences within the new energy vehicle segment.

BYD Accelerates Smart Driving Expansion Strategy

Competition within China’s new energy vehicle sector continues to intensify as automakers rapidly integrate advanced intelligent driving technologies into mainstream models. BYD is attempting to strengthen its competitive advantage by expanding the use of LiDAR systems and end-to-end large model technologies across a wider product portfolio.

The company is also expected to announce additional developments during its intelligence strategy launch event scheduled for May 28. Industry attention remains focused on potential updates related to smart driving systems and software capabilities following BYD’s earlier introduction of its second-generation Blade Battery and flash charging technologies earlier this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the BYD Sealion 06 DM-i and Song Ultra DM-i launch in China?
The BYD Sealion 06 DM-i will officially launch on May 26, while the Song Ultra DM-i is scheduled for release on May 28 in China. Both launches are part of BYD’s strategy to strengthen its plug-in hybrid portfolio in the competitive Chinese new energy vehicle market. The company is introducing updated smart driving technologies, LiDAR integration, and extended driving range capabilities across both models to attract consumers seeking advanced hybrid mobility solutions.

What are the major features of the BYD Song Ultra DM-i?
The BYD Song Ultra DM-i features the company’s fifth-generation DM hybrid system combined with a 1.5-liter engine and a 175 kW electric motor. The SUV offers two battery pack options delivering up to 310 kilometers of electric-only range. It also includes LiDAR support, the God’s Eye 5.0 intelligent driving platform, a 15.6-inch infotainment display, wireless charging, four-zone voice interaction, and premium cabin comfort features designed for modern consumers.