BYD, the Chinese automaker, has announced its plans to sell its new Xia MPV in European markets. The Xia, which was revealed at the 2024 Chengdu motor show, is designed to compete with popular models like the Volkswagen Multivan and Mercedes-Benz V-Class. This versatile MPV offers seating for up to eight occupants and can be configured in several different layouts, including seven-, six-, and four-seat options.
The Xia measures 5145mm in length, 1970mm in width, and 1805mm in height. It is slightly smaller than the long-wheelbase variant of the Multivan, being 18mm shorter, 29mm wider, and 102mm lower. In terms of pricing, the Xia is expected to be priced between ¥300,000 and ¥400,000 in China, which translates to approximately £32,100 and £42,800.
One of the key highlights of the Xia is its newly developed platform, specifically designed to support PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) drivetrains. This MPV is the first of three PHEVs that BYD plans to export to Europe next year. Stella Li, the president of BYD, has emphasized the importance of PHEVs in the brand’s European growth strategy. With ailing EV demand and EV import tariffs, PHEVs offer a viable solution for BYD to penetrate the European market.
The Xia is equipped with BYD’s fifth-generation DM (Dual Mode) PHEV system, which was recently introduced in the Qin L and Seal 06 saloons. The drivetrain combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine generating 99bhp and 93lb ft of torque with an electric motor producing 215bhp and 192lb ft. The Xia also features BYD’s Blade battery, offering electric-only driving capability with either a 10.1kWh or 15.9kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery.
One notable feature of BYD’s fifth-generation DM drivetrain is its high engine thermal efficiency, which stands at 46.06%. This makes it one of the most efficient PHEV systems in a production car. The Qin L, equipped with this drivetrain, achieves an average fuel consumption of 97.4mpg and a claimed combined range of up to 1305 miles under the official Chinese test procedure.
While BYD has produced MPV models in the past, the Xia represents its first attempt at a global model of this kind. Currently, BYD offers six models in selected European markets, including the Atto 3 crossover, Dolphin supermini, Han saloon, Seal saloon, Seal U crossover, and Tang seven-seat SUV.
In conclusion, BYD’s entry into the European MPV market with the Xia demonstrates the brand’s commitment to expanding its global presence. The Xia’s competitive pricing, versatile seating configurations, and advanced PHEV drivetrain make it an attractive option for European customers. With the growing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, BYD’s focus on PHEVs aligns with market trends and positions the brand for success in the European market.