Sales of the new BYD Yuan Up DM-i hybrid crossover are set to begin in Uzbekistan. The model combines electric-like performance with hybrid efficiency, offering a total output of 209 horsepower and a driving range of up to 1,200 km. Production is expected to be localized in the Jizzakh region, positioning the vehicle as one of the most anticipated releases in the local market.
What is the BYD Yuan Up DM-i?
The Yuan Up DM-i is the hybrid version of the compact Yuan Up crossover. Unlike the fully electric (EV) model, the DM-i variant features a parallel hybrid powertrain that includes a 1.5-liter gasoline engine.
The vehicle is aimed at European and Uzbek markets. Fuel consumption is estimated at around 4 liters per 100 km, while the combined driving range reaches up to 1,200 km.
What are the key technical specifications?
The powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder internal combustion engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 209 hp. The maximum speed is 180 km/h.
The vehicle is equipped with an 18 kWh Blade Battery, which is smaller than the 45–50 kWh battery used in the EV version. However, the hybrid system is structurally similar to those found in higher-end BYD hybrid models, with no reduction in engine capability.
As a parallel hybrid, the gasoline engine can directly drive the wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is comparable to the fully electric version.
What are its dimensions and structural features?
The crossover measures 4.3 meters in length with a wheelbase of just over 2.6 meters. Ground clearance is similar to the EV version.
It uses a Cell-to-Body construction, meaning the battery is integrated into the body structure. The battery sits flush with the underbody, with nothing protruding below. A plastic protective cover is installed as standard, with the option to upgrade to a metal shield.
How does the hybrid differ in design from the EV?
The DM-i features a redesigned front bumper with a grille, giving it a more aggressive appearance. The front camera has been repositioned higher to reduce dirt buildup.
Additional differences include a fuel filler cap, DM-i badging, new wheel designs, and an exclusive turquoise exterior color that shifts between blue and dark green depending on lighting conditions.
What does the interior offer?
Inside, the vehicle features a 12.8-inch display (without the rotating mechanism in the tested version). The gear selector has been moved to the steering column, freeing up space in the center console for improved practicality.
Equipment includes two wireless charging pads—one delivering 50W with cooling—along with a panoramic roof, voice control, support for Russian and Uzbek languages, and a dedicated mobile application.
How does it perform on the road?
Compared to the EV version, the hybrid feels slightly softer. However, due to weight redistribution from the front-mounted engine, there is a mild body sway. Overall handling remains solid.
Up to 60 km/h, the vehicle responds like an electric car with immediate throttle response. Beyond 60 km/h, the gasoline engine engages.
Tire pressure significantly affects comfort: at 2.8 bar the ride feels firmer, while at 2.4–2.5 bar it becomes noticeably more comfortable.
The suspension setup includes McPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear—simple and reliability-focused engineering.
What about durability and underbody construction?
The underbody is flat, with a steel shield protecting the battery. The exhaust system is heat-shielded, and additional metal protection can be installed if needed.
The straightforward rear torsion beam suspension and practical engineering approach highlight the model’s focus on durability and long-term use.
What is the expected price?
According to preliminary information, the hybrid version will be priced below the fully electric model. With local production planned in Uzbekistan, demand is expected to be strong.
Unofficial estimates suggest the BYD Yuan Up DM-i will cost between 220 million and 230 million soums, offering a competitive mix of range, efficiency, power, and compact dimensions.