Chinese new energy vehicle giant BYD has introduced its globally successful DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligent) technology in India, marking a major step in the country’s transition toward cleaner and more intelligent mobility solutions.
The company said the advanced plug-in hybrid technology combines electric-first driving with the flexibility of a petrol engine, offering a combined driving range of more than 1,200 kilometres. BYD believes the technology will help address key concerns surrounding electric vehicle adoption, including charging infrastructure and range anxiety.
Unlike conventional hybrid systems, which rely primarily on internal combustion engines, BYD’s DM-i platform prioritizes electric power for everyday driving. The vehicle operates mainly on battery power, while the petrol engine functions either as a generator to recharge the battery or as a supplementary power source during higher-demand driving situations.
“The introduction of DM-i technology marks a pivotal step in our commitment to making sustainable mobility more versatile and accessible for Indian consumers,” said Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business at BYD India.
The technology is powered by BYD’s highly efficient 1.5-litre Xiaoyun petrol engine, which delivers a thermal efficiency of 43.04%, among the highest in the industry. The system intelligently switches between pure electric driving, hybrid series mode, and hybrid parallel mode to optimize efficiency and performance.
BYD highlighted six core advantages of the DM-i platform: faster acceleration, lower fuel consumption, quieter operation, smoother driving dynamics, reduced emissions, and enhanced safety through the company’s proprietary Blade Battery technology.
The launch builds on BYD’s long-standing expertise in plug-in hybrid vehicles. The company introduced the world’s first mass-produced plug-in hybrid, the BYD F3DM, in 2008 and has since sold more than 8 million plug-in hybrid vehicles globally. BYD currently holds over 35% of the global plug-in hybrid market.
The automaker said DM-i technology will play a central role in its India strategy in 2026, supporting portfolio expansion and strengthening its position in the rapidly growing new energy vehicle segment.
BYD entered India in 2007 through electric buses and commercial mobility solutions before expanding into passenger vehicles. The company now offers models including the BYD SEALION 7, eMAX 7, ATTO 3, and SEAL. It has surpassed 14,000 customers in India and operates a network of 48 showrooms across 40 cities.
With two manufacturing facilities in India and investments exceeding $200 million, BYD aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable transportation through advanced battery and electrification technologies tailored to local market needs.
