BYD has released official interior images of its redesigned Qin Plus, a compact plug-in hybrid sedan that is expected to launch in late October. The new model adopts the company's latest Dynasty-series design language, featuring a cleaner cabin with a two-spoke multifunction steering wheel, semi-hidden air vents and soft ambient lighting, according to Chinese outlet Chezhiwang.
Bigger body, more tech
The Qin Plus grows in all dimensions compared with the current model: length increases by 60 mm to 4,840 mm, width by 63 mm to 1,900 mm, height by 17 mm to 1,498 mm, and wheelbase by 82 mm to 2,800 mm. The larger footprint is expected to translate into more interior space, with BYD also adding extra storage compartments, a bigger sunroof and more comfortable seats.
Inside, the dashboard features a floating digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen, alongside a wireless charging pad and physical buttons. The exterior adopts a new front-end design with a wide, horizontal grille and slim headlights, while a roof-mounted lidar unit signals the likely addition of advanced driver-assistance features, possibly including urban NOA (city-level assisted driving).
Powertrain and positioning
Under the hood, the Qin Plus uses a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, built by BYD's own plant, delivers 74 kW (99 hp), while a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor, manufactured at BYD's Changsha facility, provides a peak output of 120 kW (161 hp) and a rated power of 55 kW (74 hp).
The Qin Plus sits in the fiercely competitive compact sedan segment in China, where BYD has long been a sales leader. The addition of lidar suggests the company is pushing more affordable models to adopt higher levels of driver assistance, a trend that is spreading across the Chinese market.
Chezhiwang said it will continue to report on further details as they emerge. The official launch price has not been announced, but the current Qin Plus starts at around 100,000 yuan (about $14,100) in China, before taxes and incentives.