Is the Song MAX New Energy a Plug-in Hybrid?

[JosephLynn]

The Song MAX New Energy is available in both plug-in hybrid and pure electric versions. The plug-in hybrid variant is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 160 horsepower and a peak torque of 245 Nm. The engine reaches its maximum power at 5,200 rpm, while peak torque is available between 1,600 to 4,000 rpm. This engine features direct fuel injection technology and utilizes an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. The Song MAX is positioned as a compact new energy SUV, with body dimensions of 4,680mm in length, 1,810mm in width, and 1,680mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,785mm.

[VanBrody]

I've recently researched BYD's vehicles, and the Song MAX New Energy indeed has a plug-in hybrid version, equipped with the latest DM-i Super Hybrid Technology. Simply put, it can both charge and use fuel, with the charging port located above the left rear wheel. It takes about 2 hours to fully charge using a standard charging station. My cousin bought this car last year, and for daily commutes in the city, it basically runs purely on electricity—no fuel needed for trips under 50 kilometers. The engine only kicks in for long-distance travel, and in hybrid mode, it consumes less than 5 liters per 100 kilometers. The battery is installed in the middle of the chassis, keeping the rear floor flat, which is very practical for family road trips. If you mainly drive in the city, you can pretty much use it as a pure electric vehicle.

[PrestonLee]

As a family user, we just switched to the Song MAX New Energy DM-i plug-in hybrid version, mainly for its versatility. We use the pure electric mode for daily school runs, with electricity costs under 100 yuan per month. On weekends for long trips, it automatically switches to hybrid mode. The battery is positioned under the chassis without affecting trunk space, and the second-row seats can be folded flat to serve as a double bed. Compared to pure electric vehicles, there's no range anxiety. On my last trip from Hangzhou to Xiamen, I covered 900 km on a full tank and charge without refueling, saving half the fuel cost compared to the old gasoline model. Charging is also convenient—a slow charger in the community fills it up in 3 hours, and in emergencies, the fuel engine can generate electricity.

[ODante]

This vehicle is quite popular in the new energy MPV market, and I've compared its specifications. The main models of the Song MAX New Energy are all plug-in hybrids, equipped with BYD's DM-i system. The 1.5L naturally aspirated engine is mainly used for power generation, while the electric motor handles the primary driving. The Blade Battery supports fast charging, reaching 80% in 30 minutes. Actual tests show it can run over 80 km on pure electric power, and fuel consumption is just over 4L per 100 km when using gasoline. Compared to the pure electric version, the plug-in hybrid is more suitable for long-distance travel, as it doesn't suffer from rapid battery depletion on highways like pure electric MPVs, eliminating worries about charging queues during holiday trips back home.

[StMelanie]

From a cost perspective, this plug-in hybrid design is truly economical. The insurance is slightly cheaper than pure electric models, and maintenance with oil changes is required once a year or every 10,000 kilometers. I've done the math: commuting 40 kilometers daily on pure electric mode costs only 4 yuan in electricity; on highway trips using hybrid mode, the fuel cost is 0.3 yuan per kilometer. The key advantage is eligibility for green license plates, saving around 80,000 to 90,000 yuan in plate fees directly in cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou with license plate restrictions. The space is larger than fuel-powered MPVs in the same price range, with the third row comfortably accommodating adults and the trunk capable of fitting a stroller. If charging is convenient, the plug-in hybrid version is highly recommended.

[MacBeckett]

From a mechanic's perspective, this plug-in hybrid structure is quite mature. The left side of the engine compartment houses the drive motor, the right side has the combustion engine, and the control module sits in the middle. Common issues usually involve battery cooling or loose charging ports - just check if the dashboard shows charging current during charging. The underbody protection plate provides good battery coverage, minimizing damage even on rough roads occasionally. For home charging, using a 16-amp socket is recommended, achieving full charge in 3 hours at lower cost than public stations. Replaceable parts like headlights or wipers are compatible with the gasoline version, making maintenance parts easy to find. Before long trips, remember to check tire pressure and coolant levels. Since the hybrid engine runs less frequently, pay attention to engine oil expiration dates.