The BYD Yuan Up 45.12 kWh (95 hp) Electric is a compact, all-electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) launched by the Chinese manufacturer BYD in March 2024. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Yuan Up series, it represents BYD’s continued expansion into the rapidly growing electric vehicle market. The Yuan Up is primarily targeted at urban consumers seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle for daily commuting and family use. It’s a key model in BYD’s strategy to offer a diverse range of electric vehicles catering to different segments and price points, particularly within the Chinese domestic market, with potential for expansion into other global markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Yuan Up |
| Generation | Yuan Up |
| Type (Engine) | 45.12 kWh (95 Hp) Electric |
| Start of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Gross battery capacity | 45.12 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 401 km (249.17 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 95 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 95 Hp |
| System torque | 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) |
| Length | 4310 mm (169.69 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The BYD Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric utilizes a front-wheel-drive, Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) powertrain. The heart of the system is a single synchronous electric motor, transversely mounted to the front axle, producing 95 horsepower and 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque. The vehicle is powered by a 45.12 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack, positioned under the floor to optimize interior space and lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. LiFePO4 chemistry is favored for its enhanced thermal stability and longer cycle life compared to other lithium-ion battery types, though it typically offers slightly lower energy density. The single-speed automatic transmission is inherent to electric vehicle drivetrains, providing seamless acceleration without the need for traditional gear changes. The vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) manages power delivery, regenerative braking, and battery management functions.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 hp output and front-wheel-drive configuration of the Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric result in a driving experience geared towards efficiency and practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.9 seconds, which is typical for entry-level electric SUVs. The single-speed transmission provides linear power delivery, and the instant torque characteristic of electric motors offers adequate responsiveness for urban driving conditions. The vehicle’s relatively low weight, thanks to the compact battery pack, contributes to reasonable handling. Regenerative braking is adjustable, allowing drivers to customize the level of deceleration when lifting off the accelerator, maximizing energy recovery and extending range. Compared to potential higher-range or dual-motor variants of the Yuan Up, this base model prioritizes affordability and accessibility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As an entry-level trim, the Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric typically comes equipped with a standard suite of features designed for comfort and convenience. These generally include air conditioning, power windows, a touchscreen infotainment system (likely with smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and basic safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and airbags. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, and the dashboard design is functional and modern. Optional extras may include a larger touchscreen display, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, depending on regional availability and package options.
Chassis & Braking
The Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective and space-efficient solution for compact SUVs. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance characteristics. Electric power steering (EPS) is standard, offering light and precise steering feel. The vehicle is equipped with standard 215/65 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric is positioned to compete with other affordable electric SUVs in the Chinese market, such as the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and various models from Chery and Geely. Critics generally praise the Yuan Up for its competitive pricing, practical interior space, and decent range for urban commuting. However, some reviews note that the acceleration is modest and the interior materials are somewhat basic. Compared to higher-trim Yuan Up models with larger battery packs and more powerful motors, the 45.12 kWh variant offers a more accessible entry point into the BYD electric vehicle lineup, prioritizing affordability over performance and range. Fuel economy, expressed as energy consumption, is a key selling point, significantly lower than comparable gasoline-powered vehicles.
Legacy
As a relatively new model launched in 2024, the long-term reliability of the BYD Yuan Up 45.12 kWh Electric is still being established. However, BYD has a growing reputation for producing reliable electric vehicles, and the use of LiFePO4 battery technology is expected to contribute to a long battery lifespan. In the used car market, this variant is likely to appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle for city driving. Its success will depend on factors such as battery degradation over time, the availability of charging infrastructure, and ongoing advancements in electric vehicle technology.
