BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY) is set to officially launch its latest model, the Xia, a new addition to the MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) market. The company will unveil the Xia MPV at a launch event scheduled to take place at the Beijing National Aquatics Center on January 8 at 19:30 Beijing Time.
The Xia is positioned as the premium MPV in BYD’s Dynasty lineup, joining the ranks of the Denza D9, another MPV offered by the BYD Group. It marks a significant step for the brand, as the BYD lineup currently lacks any MPV models in China.
In the past, BYD introduced the M6 MPV in 2010 and the Song Max in 2017, both of which have since been discontinued in the Chinese market. The Xia MPV, however, presents a new opportunity for BYD to make its mark in the MPV segment.
The Xia is a plug-in hybrid vehicle, boasting dimensions of 5,145 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, and 1,805 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,045 mm. These measurements slightly undershoot those of the Denza D9, which measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, 1,920 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.
Under the hood, the Xia is equipped with an engine featuring a displacement of 1,498 ml and a maximum power output of 115 kW. Additionally, it comes with an electric motor capable of delivering a maximum power of 200 kW, as per a regulatory filing from October.
BYD first showcased the Xia MPV at the Chengdu auto show on August 30, where it announced plans to price the model in the RMB 300,000-yuan ($40,980) range. The Xia is part of BYD’s Dynasty lineup, named after the first recorded Chinese dynasty, with the Ocean series serving as another major lineup for the brand.
The Xia is expected to incorporate BYD’s fifth-generation DM hybrid technology, introduced in May last year to enhance fuel efficiency. Pre-orders for the Xia commenced on September 27, although pricing details were not disclosed at that time.
As BYD gears up for the official launch of the Xia MPV, it remains to be seen how this new offering will fare in the competitive MPV market. With its premium features, plug-in hybrid technology, and Dynasty lineage, the Xia is poised to make a significant impact in the segment.
