The BYD Song Pro EV 59.1 kWh (163 Hp) is a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) from July 2019 to August 2022. Positioned as a mainstream electric vehicle, the Song Pro EV represented BYD’s push into the rapidly expanding EV market, particularly within China. It’s built on BYD’s e-Platform, designed specifically for electric vehicles, and aimed to provide a balance of range, practicality, and affordability. This specific variant, equipped with the 59.1 kWh battery pack and a single electric motor producing 163 horsepower, served as a core offering within the Song Pro lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a daily-driver EV with reasonable range and performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song |
| Generation | Song Pro |
| Type (Engine) | EV 59.1 kWh (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | August, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 160.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 59.1 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 438 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 400 km (248.55 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 163 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | BYD-2015TZ-XS-D |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 163 Hp |
| System torque | 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1745 kg (3847.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 406 l (14.34 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1340 l (47.32 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4650 mm (183.07 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2712 mm (106.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| 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 Pro EV 59.1 kWh utilizes a front-wheel-drive, all-electric powertrain. The heart of the system is the BYD-2015TZ-XS-D synchronous electric motor, delivering 163 horsepower and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque. This motor is directly coupled to a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of most electric vehicles. The 59.1 kWh battery pack, employing Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (Li-NMC) chemistry, is positioned under the vehicle floor to optimize weight distribution and maximize cabin space. The battery operates at 438 volts. BYD’s battery management system (BMS) is crucial for ensuring optimal battery performance, longevity, and safety, monitoring cell voltages, temperatures, and current flow. The vehicle supports charging via a standard CCS connector, allowing for both AC and DC fast charging.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp and 280 Nm of instant torque provide adequate, though not exhilarating, acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.2 seconds is competitive within its class, suitable for everyday commuting and urban driving. The single-speed transmission delivers smooth, linear acceleration without the gear changes associated with internal combustion engines. Compared to higher-output versions of the Song Pro EV, this variant offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing efficiency over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to stable cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Pro EV 59.1 kWh typically came standard with features such as LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system (often 12.8 inches in size), automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, and a suite of driver-assistance systems including ABS, electronic stability control, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and more advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on modern design and functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Pro EV features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes are used at the front, while solid discs are found at the rear. Electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel. The vehicle rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with 235/50 R19 tires. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. A relatively modest ground clearance of 150 mm (5.91 in.) limits its off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Song Pro EV 59.1 kWh was generally well-received by critics and consumers in China, praised for its competitive pricing, decent range, and spacious interior. Compared to other EVs in its segment, such as the Aion S and the GAC NEON, the Song Pro EV offered a compelling value proposition. The 59.1 kWh variant provided a good balance between range and cost, making it an attractive option for buyers who didn’t require the longer range offered by the larger battery pack options. Fuel economy, expressed as energy consumption, was competitive with other EVs, typically around 15-17 kWh per 100 kilometers.
Legacy
The BYD Song Pro EV 59.1 kWh played a significant role in establishing BYD as a major player in the electric vehicle market. The e-Platform technology and Li-NMC battery pack proved to be reliable and efficient. On the used car market, these models generally hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with well-maintained batteries. While battery degradation is a concern with all EVs, BYD’s battery management system has proven to be effective in mitigating this issue. The Song Pro EV continues to be a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and practical electric SUV.
