Which mode should BYD Han DM use on highways?
2 Answers
BYD Han DM should use the HEV highway mode on highways. Meaning of HEV: HEV stands for "Hybrid-Electric-Vehicle," which refers to a non-plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. It is powered by both a diesel or gasoline engine and an electric motor, which together provide the vehicle's power. The most mature hybrid technology currently involves a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Function of HEV: The battery capacity of an HEV is very small and cannot be charged using an external power source, making it incapable of prolonged pure electric driving. Its electric motor has low power and can only provide auxiliary power to the engine during scenarios like starting or accelerating, thereby achieving some energy-saving effects. Since the main power source is still the engine, it is not classified as a new energy vehicle but rather as an energy-saving fuel vehicle.
When driving the BYD Han DM on highways, I usually opt for the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) mode, a choice based on practical driving experience and personal preference. During high-speed cruising, the hybrid mode effectively balances fuel economy and power output, as the engine operates efficiently at constant speeds while the electric motor assists with smooth acceleration, preventing sudden battery depletion. If the battery is sufficiently charged, starting in pure Electric Vehicle (EV) mode is an option, but for rapid acceleration or long-distance travel where battery drains quickly, switching to HEV proves more reliable. The vehicle system automatically adjusts energy regeneration, though manually selecting HEV offers greater peace of mind. I also make sure to maintain battery levels above 20% to avoid frequent engine start-stop cycles. Given the significant aerodynamic drag at highway speeds, HEV optimizes overall efficiency, consistently saving 10-15% in fuel consumption per long trip. Factoring in weather conditions like windy days, pre-charging ensures driving stability. Regularly checking mode settings is crucial—while the intelligent system performs well, proactive control provides added assurance.