BYD, the Chinese automaker, is planning to introduce its new range of Fanchengbao off-roaders in the UK. Fangchengbao is one of BYD’s sub-brands and is expected to be the first to enter UK dealerships. The brand was showcased at the Chengdu motor show in 2023, featuring three rugged electrified 4x4s named Bao 3, Bao 5, and Bao 8. Stella Li, the company president, confirmed that Fangchenbao will be exported to the UK, predicting its popularity in the market.
The UK market is known for its narrow roads, but there is a strong demand for large SUV off-road cars. BYD recognized this opportunity and decided to bring Fangchenbao to the UK. The mid-sized Bao 5, which is comparable in size to the Land Rover Defender 110, is likely to be the first model to arrive. It is designed as a premium family SUV with off-road capabilities. The vehicle offers high-quality materials, advanced technology, and impressive ground clearance. It is based on BYD’s ‘DMO Super Hybrid Off-Road’ platform, which combines a 1.5-liter turbo engine with electric motors on each axle, producing up to 677bhp and 561lb ft of torque.
The Bao 5 also features a sizeable 31.8kWh battery that serves as a structural element. It provides an estimated EV range of up to 78 miles on China’s CLTC cycle. However, the real-world range is expected to be around 50 miles. The larger Bao 8, which is comparable in size to the Defender 130, offers even more power with a 2.0-liter engine and two EV motors. Its combined output exceeds 900bhp.
While the Bao 8 comes with six or seven seats in China, it is unclear if BYD will consider it suitable for the UK market due to its size and power. On the other hand, the entry-level Bao 3 is a pure-electric SUV that competes with models like the Ford Explorer and Skoda Enyaq. It offers a claimed range of 317 miles and comes with two four-wheel-drive powertrain options.
In addition to introducing the Fanchengbao cars in the UK, BYD has plans to launch three new plug-in hybrids in Europe in 2025. These models may include Europe-adapted versions of the Seal 06 DMI, Seal 07 DMI, and Song-L DMI models sold in China. BYD will also bring three new EVs to the European market next year, including the Ocean-M hatchback and the Sea Lion crossover.
Overall, BYD’s decision to bring its Fanchengbao off-roaders to the UK reflects the company’s strategy to expand its market coverage and offer a wider range of powertrain choices. With the increasing popularity of large premium SUVs in the UK, BYD aims to capitalize on this demand by providing consumers with rugged and electrified models that combine high-quality materials, advanced technology, and impressive off-road capabilities.