Why was the BYD e5 discontinued?
3 Answers
The reason is that the manufacturer's production capacity was insufficient, and the profit margin was too small, leading to its discontinuation. Below is a related introduction to the BYD e5: 1. In terms of passenger space performance, the BYD e5 performs relatively well among A-class sedans. Its 2660mm wheelbase also provides ample legroom for rear passengers. 2. In terms of suspension and chassis, the BYD e5 is equipped with a front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension. However, the tuning is very stiff, resulting in strong jolts when driving on rough roads or over speed bumps, significantly reducing in-cabin comfort. 3. In terms of features, the BYD e5 is also relatively basic. The entire lineup still uses halogen headlights, which provide insufficient illumination, making nighttime driving unsafe. Common features such as cruise control, automatic parking, remote start, electric seat adjustment, and rear air vents are not included.
I've been driving the BYD e5 for several years, and I'm not surprised at all that it's been discontinued. Mainly, BYD has introduced new models that have stolen the spotlight, like the Qin EV and Han. These new models easily exceed 400 kilometers in range, feature trendier designs, more upscale interiors, and are reasonably priced. The e5's older battery technology couldn't keep up, with slower charging and significant range drops in winter, leading to a natural decline in sales. I heard last year's shipments dropped considerably, prompting BYD to adjust its strategy by discontinuing older models to free up production lines for more popular vehicles. For existing owners, the impact is minimal—services are still available, and repairs and maintenance can still be handled. After discontinuation, the company is focusing on developing more high-end series. The entire electric vehicle market is upgrading, and those that can't keep up are being phased out.
From a technical perspective, the e5's discontinuation is quite normal. It uses outdated lithium iron phosphate batteries with low energy density that are prone to aging, while newer models have adopted blade batteries which are more compact and safer. Its infotainment system is also outdated, lacking OTA upgrade capability and plagued with software issues. User feedback suggests patching it is less effective than launching new models. With rapid electrification progress, BYD has shifted resources to develop platforms like e-platform 3.0 and models like the Dolphin, which offer better performance at lower costs. The discontinuation represents reasonable product renewal - there's no need to worry about older models as new technologies always phase out outdated ones.
