BYD is set to significantly upgrade its Song Pro DM-i plug-in hybrid crossover, introducing a larger battery pack that increases its electric-only range by over 33%. According to recent filings from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the updated model will also feature “flash charging” capabilities, drastically reducing wait times at the plug.
The Push for Competitiveness
The decision to upgrade the Song Pro comes at a critical time for BYD. While the model has been a staple in the Chinese market since 2019, recent data suggests a shift in consumer demand.
According to China EV DataTracker, BYD saw a 40.2% year-over-year decline in Song Pro deliveries during the first quarter of 2026. This sales slump indicates that the existing powertrain may no longer be sufficient to compete in an increasingly crowded and technologically advanced NEV (New Energy Vehicle) market. By increasing battery capacity and charging speeds, BYD aims to reclaim its momentum in the compact crossover segment.
Technical Breakthroughs: Range and Charging
The new iteration of the Song Pro DM-i moves away from its previous battery limitations to offer a more robust electric driving experience.
Enhanced Battery Specifications
The updated model utilizes a 34.275 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery manufactured by FinDreams. The improvements are substantial when compared to the current top-trim version:
- Electric Range: The new WLTC-rated range is 200 km, a significant jump from the previous 150 km. Under the Chinese CLTC cycle, this is expected to reach approximately 290 km.
- Efficiency: Even when the battery is depleted, the SUV maintains high efficiency with a fuel consumption rate of just 4.6 liters per 100 km.
- Weight: The new battery pack weighs 258 kg.
Rapid Charging Capabilities
Perhaps the most impactful upgrade is the integration of flash charging technology. When using BYD’s megawatt chargers, the battery is expected to charge from 10% to 97% in roughly nine minutes. This level of speed addresses one of the primary pain points for plug-in hybrid users: the inconvenience of long charging stops.
Vehicle Profile and Performance
The Song Pro remains a compact five-seater crossover (4735mm length / 2712mm wheelbase) featuring BYD’s modern “Dragon Whisker” design language.
The powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter internal combustion engine (74 kW) paired with a 120 kW electric motor, driving the front axle. To complement the hardware upgrades, the new version is expected to offer advanced driver assistance through the DiPilot 300 system, which utilizes LiDAR technology for enhanced safety and autonomy.
This strategic update transforms the Song Pro from a standard plug-in hybrid into a much more capable long-distance commuter, directly addressing the range anxiety and charging delays that often deter buyers from hybrid technology.
In summary, BYD is responding to falling sales by heavily upgrading the Song Pro’s battery capacity and charging speed, aiming to provide a more seamless transition between electric and gasoline driving.
