The BYD Song Max DM 1.5TI 15.98 kWh (310 Hp) DCT is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) produced by the Chinese automaker BYD from March 2019 to 2021. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Song Max lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and practicality for families. The Song Max, as a whole, is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed to cater to the growing demand for spacious and versatile vehicles in the Chinese market. This particular variant, with its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and dual-motor hybrid system, represented BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicles and advanced powertrain technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song Max |
| Generation | Song Max |
| Type (Engine) | DM 1.5TI 15.98 kWh (310 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 1.2 l/100 km (196 US mpg, 235.4 UK mpg, 83.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 15.98 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| All-electric range | 81 km (50.33 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 150 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 310 Hp |
| System torque | 495 Nm (365.09 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD476ZQB |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.4 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The BYD Song Max DM 1.5TI utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system. The core of the powertrain is the BYD476ZQB 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 160 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 4000 rpm. It features direct fuel injection and a turbocharger to enhance efficiency and power output. Complementing the gasoline engine is a 150 horsepower electric motor powered by a 15.98 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. The battery is strategically located under the floor and front seats, minimizing impact on cabin space. The combined system output reaches 310 horsepower and 495 Nm (365.09 lb-ft) of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), chosen for its quick and smooth gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The Song Max DM 1.5TI offers a versatile driving experience. In pure electric mode, it provides silent and emission-free operation for up to 81 kilometers (50.33 miles), suitable for daily commutes and city driving. When the battery is depleted or requires assistance, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, providing extended range and performance. The DCT transmission contributes to responsive acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.9 seconds. Compared to lower-powered versions of the Song Max, the 1.5TI offers significantly improved acceleration and highway passing power. While not as sporty as some dedicated performance vehicles, the hybrid system delivers ample torque for confident overtaking maneuvers. The electric motor provides instant torque, enhancing responsiveness at lower speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Max DM 1.5TI typically came well-equipped, reflecting its mid-range positioning. Standard features often included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, power-adjustable seats, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was generally a combination of fabric and leatherette. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, leather seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The trim level often dictated the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Max DM 1.5TI utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The rear suspension features a torsion beam setup, balancing cost-effectiveness with adequate ride quality. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) ensures safe and controlled stopping power in various conditions. The steering system is a rack and pinion type with electric power assistance, offering precise and effortless steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Song Max DM 1.5TI was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced technology. Critics noted the smooth integration of the hybrid powertrain and the comfortable ride quality. Compared to other trims in the Song Max lineup, the 1.5TI offered a compelling balance between performance and economy. While the base models prioritized affordability, the 1.5TI appealed to buyers seeking more power and refinement. Compared to competitors like the Geely Boyue PHEV and the Changan CS75 PHEV, the Song Max DM 1.5TI offered competitive fuel economy and a comparable level of features.
Legacy
The BYD Song Max DM 1.5TI represents a significant step in BYD’s development of plug-in hybrid technology. The powertrain, while superseded by newer iterations, proved to be relatively reliable in real-world use. The LiFePO4 battery technology is known for its stability and longevity. On the used car market, these models continue to offer a practical and fuel-efficient transportation option. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although sourcing specific parts may require utilizing BYD dealerships or specialized import channels outside of China. The Song Max DM 1.5TI helped establish BYD as a leading player in the Chinese new energy vehicle market and paved the way for future hybrid and electric models.
