The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti (360 Hp) 4WD E-CVT is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) produced by the Chinese automaker BYD from September 2021 to June 2023. Positioned as a mid-range to upper-mid-range offering within the Song Plus lineup, it represents BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicles and showcases their DM-i (Dual Mode – Intelligent) technology. This variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and all-weather capability, appealing to consumers seeking a practical and technologically advanced SUV. The Song Plus, in general, is a compact SUV designed primarily for the Chinese domestic market, but with increasing export ambitions for BYD.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song |
| Generation | Song Plus |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5Ti (360 Hp) 4WD E-CVT |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| End of production | June, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 1.1 l/100 km (213.8 US mpg, 256.8 UK mpg, 90.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 18.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 100 km (62.14 mi) |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 197 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 316 Nm (233.07 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Front) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 163 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Rear) | Synchronous |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| Internal combustion engine Power | 139 Hp |
| Power per litre | 92.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 231 Nm (170.38 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Xiaoyun |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VVT |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4705 mm (185.24 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4). PHEV. ICE drives front, electric motors drive front and rear. |
| Number of gears/gearbox type | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti utilizes BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, which prioritizes electric driving as much as possible. The core of the system is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine (code Xiaoyun) producing 139 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. This engine primarily functions as a generator to charge the 18.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. The engine features direct fuel injection, a turbocharger with intercooler, and variable valve timing (VVT) for improved efficiency. Two electric motors – a 197 hp front motor and a 163 hp rear motor – provide all-wheel drive capability and deliver the primary motive force. The combined system output is a substantial 360 horsepower. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery, optimizing efficiency and responsiveness. Unlike traditional CVTs, the E-CVT in the DM-i system doesn’t rely on a belt; instead, it uses a multi-speed gearbox integrated with the electric motors for smoother and more efficient operation.
Driving Characteristics
The DM-i 1.5Ti 4WD offers a distinctly different driving experience compared to conventional gasoline-powered SUVs. In most driving scenarios, the vehicle operates in electric mode, providing near-silent acceleration and instant torque. The all-electric range of 100 km (62 miles) allows for daily commutes and short trips to be completed without using any gasoline. When the battery is depleted or requires additional power, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to act as a generator, maintaining a consistent driving experience. The combined power output of 360 hp results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds. The E-CVT transmission contributes to smooth and linear acceleration, although it may lack the sporty feel of a traditional multi-gear automatic. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to lower-powered Song Plus variants, the DM-i 1.5Ti offers significantly more performance and a more refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti 4WD typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-to-upper trim level. Standard features generally included a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include premium audio systems, ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior design emphasized a modern and minimalist aesthetic, with high-quality materials and a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti features an independent suspension setup – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear – providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort with body control. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The chassis is designed to accommodate the weight of the battery pack and electric motors without compromising handling or stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti 4WD was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its fuel efficiency, performance, and advanced technology. Critics highlighted the smooth and quiet electric driving experience, as well as the vehicle’s spacious interior and comprehensive feature set. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, the Song Plus DM-i offered a competitive all-electric range and a relatively powerful powertrain. Its fuel economy of 1.1 l/100 km (213.8 US mpg) was a significant selling point. However, some reviewers noted that the E-CVT transmission could feel less engaging than traditional automatic gearboxes.
Legacy
The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5Ti 4WD represents a significant step forward in BYD’s development of new energy vehicles. The DM-i technology has proven to be reliable and efficient, and the Song Plus has become a popular choice among Chinese consumers. On the used car market, these models generally hold their value well, particularly those with lower mileage and well-maintained service records. The LiFePO4 battery technology is known for its durability and safety, contributing to the long-term reliability of the powertrain. As BYD expands its global presence, the Song Plus DM-i is likely to become a more familiar sight on roads around the world.
