Tech media and car-spotting channels have spotted a new multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) test model developed by BYD under the "Ocean" series, while being transported on a truck and at one of the company's fast-charging stations in China, ahead of its expected launch before the end of the current year.
Different Design and Anticipated Technical Specifications
The company had previously unveiled the "Ocean-V" concept model at the Beijing Auto Show last April, showcasing a futuristic design featuring a sliding central screen and two innovative modes: camping mode and cinema mode, which transforms the cabin into a mobile theater via a screen emerging from the dashboard. However, spy shots of the prototype under testing revealed a different design characterized by a boxy shape, a wide front grille with traditional door handles, and a roof-mounted LiDAR system.
What Changes Practically?
According to available local reports, the anticipated vehicle's dimensions are expected to be approximately 5,145 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, and 1,805 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,045 mm, and a seating layout accommodating seven passengers in a 2+2+3 configuration. Despite the absence of official confirmation from the company regarding the powertrain and batteries, it is likely to rely on the Dual Mode intelligent (DM-i) plug-in hybrid system and Blade Batteries due to the presence of the massive front grille.
Market Gap and Launch Date
This step comes to fill the gap in the company's multi-purpose vehicle lineup, which currently includes the flagship Denza D9 model starting at over 300,000 yuan, and the Xia model ranging between 200,000 and 300,000 yuan. Zhang Zhu, general manager of the Ocean series at the company, stated that the anticipated vehicle will be unveiled before the end of 2026.