The BYD Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti (272 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT, launched in April 2025, represents a significant offering in BYD’s expanding lineup of new energy vehicles. Positioned as a mid-to-upper range trim within the Tang L generation, this variant combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a plug-in hybrid system, offering a balance of efficiency, performance, and practicality. The Tang L is a seven-seat SUV/Crossover designed primarily for the Chinese domestic market, though BYD is actively expanding its global presence. This model aims to appeal to families seeking a spacious, technologically advanced vehicle with reduced emissions and the flexibility of both electric and gasoline power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Tang |
| Generation | Tang L |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5Ti (272 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT |
| Start of production | April, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Gross battery capacity | 35.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (CLTC) | 215 km (133.59 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 315 Nm (232.33 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 272 Hp |
| System torque | 315 Nm (232.33 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 156 Hp |
| Power per litre | 104.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm (165.95 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD472ZQB |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 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 | EVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1960 l (69.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 5040 mm (198.43 in.) |
| Width | 1996 mm (78.58 in.) |
| Height | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2950 mm (116.14 in.) |
| Front track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti utilizes BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode – intelligent) hybrid technology. At its core is a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine (BYD472ZQB) producing 156 horsepower and 225 Nm (165.95 lb.-ft.) of torque. This engine operates on the Atkinson cycle, prioritizing thermal efficiency over outright power. The engine is paired with a 272 horsepower electric motor, resulting in a combined system output of 272 horsepower and 315 Nm (232.33 lb.-ft.) of torque. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) doesn’t have traditional gears; instead, it intelligently manages the power flow between the engine and the electric motor. The 35.6 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack, located under the floor, provides an all-electric range of 215 km (133.59 miles) under CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) standards. The DM-i system allows the vehicle to operate in three primary modes: EV-only, hybrid, and engine-only, optimizing for efficiency and performance based on driving conditions and battery charge level.
Driving Characteristics
The Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. In EV mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, leveraging the instant torque of the electric motor. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless, and the E-CVT provides smooth, stepless acceleration. Compared to higher-output Tang L variants, this 1.5Ti model prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright speed. While the 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds is respectable, it’s slightly slower than versions equipped with more powerful engines. The E-CVT is tuned for efficiency, meaning it doesn’t offer the sporty responsiveness of a traditional multi-gear automatic. However, it excels in providing a relaxed and effortless driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to predictable handling, though it may not offer the same level of grip as all-wheel-drive models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti typically comes well-equipped with standard features including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offer additional features like a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior materials are generally of good quality, with a focus on comfort and practicality. The seven-seat configuration provides ample space for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti features a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, offering adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system provides light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively high weight, due to the battery pack, is mitigated by the suspension tuning, which prioritizes ride comfort without sacrificing handling stability. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti has been well-received in the Chinese market, where it competes with other plug-in hybrid SUVs from both domestic and international manufacturers. Critics have praised its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and advanced technology. Compared to other Tang L trims, the 1.5Ti offers a more affordable entry point into the model range, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers. Its fuel economy of 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) is significantly better than that of gasoline-only versions. Reliability reports are still emerging, but BYD has a growing reputation for building durable and well-engineered vehicles.
Legacy
The BYD Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti represents a key step in BYD’s transition towards becoming a leading global manufacturer of new energy vehicles. The DM-i technology, with its focus on efficiency and practicality, is likely to become a cornerstone of BYD’s future product lineup. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be seen, but the use of LiFePO4 batteries, known for their stability and longevity, is a positive sign. As BYD expands its global presence, the Tang L DM-i 1.5Ti is poised to become a significant player in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
