BYD Tang to get plug-in hybrid version in PH?
LTO homologates BYD Tang DM-i for Philippine market
Ever since BYD Cars Philippines brought its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) DM-i technology into the country, cars like the Sealion 6 and Seal 5 have proven to be quite popular with buyers. Yes, the brand also offers electric vehicles (EVs), but based on current market trends, it's the brand's DM-i models that are proving to be more popular with car buyers.
The automaker even launched the electrified Shark 6 pickup truck that benefits from a DMO system, which is a derivative of BYD's DM-i system, albeit geared for off-road use. With BYD's PHEV system combining the best of both worlds in terms of electric mobility, it's no surprise the brand is set to offer more vehicles powered by the brand's DM-i powertrain.
We already received word about the Sealion 5 DM-i getting approval from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) last month, which means it might not be long before BYD Cars Philippines launches it. But that doesn't mean the automaker doesn't plan on bringing more DM-i models. In fact, the LTO recently homologated another BYD vehicle with DM-i technology.
This time it's the BYD Tang DM-i. Yes, the brand's flagship EV crossover may soon be available as a PHEV. Based on the LTO's new listing, the BYD Tang DM-i will come with a 1497cc engine and will be assisted by an electric motor that puts out 200 kW or 272 PS. With a fully charged lithium-iron phosphate battery, the Tang DM-i has an electric range of up to 110 km. As for recharging the battery, it will take an AC charger three hours to fully recharge the Tang DM-i, while a DC charger can replenish it from 20% to 80% in just 22 minutes. In other markets, the Tang DM-i is rated to have a combined range of up to 1,150 km.
Based on a regulatory approval we saw two months ago, the upcoming mystery vehicle from BYD will have a 1497cc turbocharged engine and will be assisted by an electric motor that makes 200 kW or 272 PS. Side-by-side with the new LTO homologation, and it looks like our hunch that it will be the BYD Tang DM-i is right.
Size-wise, the Tang DM-i homologated by the LTO will measure 4870mm long, 1950mm wide, and 1720mm tall on a 2820mm wheelbase. It will also have a ground clearance of 225mm and will roll on 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255/50 series tires. Based on these exterior dimensions, the Tang DM-i for PH will most likely be based on the latest update, as the 2025 Tang L is bigger, measures over 5 meters long, and its wheelbase is longer at 2950mm.
With the BYD Tang set to be available with DM-i technology, we're curious if the automaker will still offer the EV version, which has long been available in the brand's lineup. In addition, we'll be keeping an eye out for more possible leaks and when BYD Cars Philippines plans to release the Tang DM-i in the country.
