The BYD Qin is a successful series of compact to mid-size sedans that have been highly popular in China and are expanding into international markets. The lineup currently features two main contemporary models: the Qin Plus and the newer, larger Qin L, both offered as all-electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (DM-i) vehicles.
Design and Interior
The Qin models feature BYD’s “Dragon Face” design language, characterized by sleek lines and a modern aesthetic. They are four-door, five-seat sedans. The newer Qin L has a longer wheelbase than the Qin Plus, translating into increased rear passenger space.
The interior is minimalist and technologically advanced, often featuring design elements inspired by Chinese landscape paintings. Key interior features include:
- A large, electrically rotatable central touchscreen (10.1 or 15.6 inches) with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
- A fully digital instrument cluster for the driver.
- Available premium features such as leather seats with heating and ventilation functions, dual wireless charging pads, and in the Qin L EV, a built-in refrigerator/warming box.
Performance and Drivetrain
The Qin series is known for blending performance with efficiency using BYD’s advanced “Dual Mode (DM-i)” hybrid technology and pure electric e-platforms.
Plug-in Hybrid (DM-i/DM-p): These models feature a 1.5L turbocharged “Xiaoyun” engine designed with exceptional thermal efficiency, primarily acting as a generator. The car is largely driven by a powerful electric motor, resulting in a smooth, quiet ride with significant combined power (e.g., the Qin Plus DM-i can produce over 300 hp combined).
- All-Electric (EV): The EV variants are built on dedicated electric platforms (like the e-Platform 3.0 Evo for the Qin L EV) and use a single electric motor powering the front or rear wheels. Power outputs vary, with models offering between 148 hp and 215 hp.
- Acceleration: Performance-wise, the PHEV models can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7.3 seconds, while some older, more powerful first-gen variants could do it in less than 5.9 seconds.
Range and Battery
The Qin models use BYD’s safe and durable “Blade Battery” technology (Lithium Iron Phosphate, LFP chemistry).
- Qin Plus DM-i (PHEV): Offers a pure electric range (CLTC/NEDC) of between 55 km (~34 miles) and 120 km (~75 miles), depending on the battery size (around 8.3 kWh or 18.3 kWh). The total combined range with a full tank and charge can exceed 1,200 km (for older models) or up to 2,100 km for the newer 2025 DM-i 5.0 variants.
- Qin Plus EV (All-Electric): Offers an all-electric range (CLTC) of around 420 km (~260 miles) to 510 km (~317 miles), with battery sizes of approximately 48 kWh or 57.6 kWh.
- Qin L EV (All-Electric): The newer, larger EV sedan offers a CLTC range of 470 km (~292 miles) or 545 km (~339 miles), with battery options of 46.08 kWh or 56.64 kWh.
Charging and Technology
The Qin series supports both AC slow charging and DC fast charging.
- DC fast charging can typically replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
- AC slow charging usually takes between 2.5 to 8 hours for a full charge, depending on the battery size.
Advanced safety and driver-assistance systems, branded as DiPilot, include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic parking.