BYD Makes a Hybrid That Goes 2,000 Km

BYD’s new hybrid car can drive an extremely long way before needing to recharge the battery or put more gas in the tank. This new hybrid can go over 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles) using just one battery charge and a tank of gas together. That is far enough to drive from New York City to Miami without stopping at all! Many people are afraid their electric car will run out of power before getting where they want to go.

BYD Says You Save Lots of Money  

BYD says drivers of their new hybrid can save a lot of money compared to regular gas-only cars. They can save up to $1,336 per year. You save money because sometimes you use a cheaper battery instead of gas.

BYD’s Hybrid Success

BYD has been very successful in selling hybrid cars in recent years, especially in China. Their previous hybrid models like the Qin and Song could drive dozens of miles on just the battery before needing the gas engine. Those hybrids helped make BYD grow rapidly since 2021.

This new 5th-generation hybrid takes that technology even further by going over 1,000 miles on a single charge and tank together. BYD just launched sedan versions of their Qin L and Seal models with this amazing new hybrid for around $14,000.

In just the first three months of 2024, BYD sold 3.6 million of their plug-in hybrid models after lowering prices by up to 22%. The lower costs and great fuel economy attracted many cost-conscious Chinese buyers.

Competition is Heating Up 

While BYD is growing quickly, they still sell fewer cars globally than big auto companies like Toyota, Volkswagen, GM, and Stellantis. Those competitors are working hard on their own affordable hybrid and electric models.

Toyota just showed off new engines that can run on alternative fuels like biofuels to reduce emissions, not focus on fully electric cars. Toyota’s hybrid technology was first with the Prius, but Chinese automakers’ plug-in hybrids can now drive much further on just the battery.

However, the US has placed a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles starting August 1st this year. Europe is expected to add its tariffs on Chinese EVs in June over concerns about subsidies China provides automakers.

Volkswagen Plans Affordable Electric Cars

Not wanting to be left behind, Volkswagen announced plans to make very low-cost electric cars for around $21,700 to compete with Chinese rivals. Sales of these affordable Volkswagen EVs will start in Europe in 2027.

The Volkswagen CEO said “It’s about entry-level electric mobility from Europe for Europe” when talking about their upcoming affordable electric lineup.

As more and more automakers release cheaper hybrid and electric options, cars without any gas engines at all are becoming much more realistic and affordable for the mass market. The competition to make the best mix of range, price, and convenience is heating up!