The BYD Tang I 2.0T (505 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD DCT represents a significant entry into the burgeoning plug-in hybrid SUV market from the Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams). Produced from January 2015 to June 2018, this variant occupied a premium position within the first generation Tang (I) lineup. It was primarily aimed at the Chinese domestic market, where demand for larger, technologically advanced SUVs was rapidly increasing, and where government incentives favored new energy vehicles. The Tang I combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with dual electric motors, offering a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and all-wheel-drive capability. This model was a key step for BYD in establishing itself as a leader in electric and hybrid vehicle technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Tang |
| Generation | Tang I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0T (505 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 2.4 l/100 km (98 US mpg, 117.7 UK mpg, 41.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 2.5 l/100 km (94.1 US mpg, 113 UK mpg, 40 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.4 l/100 km (98 US mpg, 117.7 UK mpg, 41.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 227.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 369.4 Nm/tonne |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| Electric motor power (x2) | 150 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (x2) | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission (front), Rear axle, Transverse (rear) |
| System power | 505 Hp |
| System torque | 820 Nm (604.8 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 205 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD487ZQA |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Kerb Weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1084 l (38.28 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2398 l (84.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4815 mm (189.57 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, electric motors drive front and rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Tang I 2.0T is a combination of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine (BYD487ZQA) and two electric motors. The gasoline engine produces 205 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger to enhance power output. Crucially, the system incorporates two electric motors, each generating 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. One motor is integrated with the front axle, while the second drives the rear axle, providing true all-wheel-drive capability. The combined system output reaches an impressive 505 horsepower and 820 Nm (604.8 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is managed by a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), chosen for its quick and smooth gear changes. The lithium-ion battery pack, positioned under the floor, provides a significant all-electric range, though specific range figures varied depending on driving conditions and battery capacity.
Driving Characteristics
The Tang I 2.0T delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to lower-trim versions of the Tang. The combined power output results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The DCT transmission contributes to responsive shifts, although some drivers noted a slight hesitation at low speeds. In electric mode, the Tang I offers a quiet and refined driving experience, suitable for urban commutes. The hybrid system seamlessly blends power from the engine and motors, providing ample torque across the rev range. Compared to a hypothetical gasoline-only Tang, the 2.0T offers significantly improved acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tang I 2.0T was generally offered with a high level of standard equipment. This typically included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras could include upgraded sound systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and premium interior trim options. The interior design was modern and spacious, reflecting BYD’s increasing focus on quality and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The Tang I features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, ensuring adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive control. The vehicle’s relatively high weight (2220 kg / 4894 lbs) is mitigated by the powerful powertrain and the all-wheel-drive system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Tang I 2.0T was well-received in the Chinese market, where it competed with other plug-in hybrid SUVs from both domestic and international manufacturers. Critics praised its performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. However, some noted the relatively high price compared to gasoline-only alternatives. Compared to lower-spec Tang models, the 2.0T offered a substantial performance upgrade and a more luxurious driving experience, justifying the price premium for many buyers. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures of 2.4 l/100 km (98 US mpg) being highly competitive.
Legacy
The BYD Tang I 2.0T played a crucial role in establishing BYD as a leading player in the plug-in hybrid vehicle segment. The powertrain technology developed for this model has been further refined and incorporated into subsequent BYD vehicles. While the Tang I is no longer in production, it remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a technologically advanced and environmentally friendly SUV. The long-term reliability of the powertrain is generally considered good, although access to specialized parts and service may be limited outside of China.
