The automotive landscape in Australia is about to witness another significant shake-up as spy photographers recently captured the BYD Song Pro DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV undergoing extensive testing on Australian roads. This development signals BYD’s ambitious plans to further expand their footprint in the Australian market, potentially offering consumers an even more affordable alternative to their current Sealion 6 model.
The Spotted Vehicle: What We Know So Far
The camouflaged test vehicle, sporting distinctive blue-tinged wrapping, was photographed during what appeared to be comprehensive road testing across various Australian conditions. According to registration records, a New South Wales-plated ‘BYD Song Plus evaluation vehicle’ was officially registered on May 2, 2025, with delivery kilometres only, suggesting this is indeed a fresh import specifically for local market evaluation.
The registered vehicle displays a tare mass of 1,740 kilograms, which aligns closely with the Chinese-specification kerb weight of 1,765 kilograms. This consistency indicates that BYD is likely testing the Song Pro DM-i in a configuration very similar to what’s currently available in their home market, though local modifications for Australian Design Rules compliance are expected.
BYD’s Strategic Positioning in Australia
Since BYD headquarters recently assumed direct control of Australian operations from former distributor EV Direct, the Chinese automaker has been methodically expanding their local presence. The company has already achieved remarkable success, accumulating over 40,000 sales since their late 2022 brand launch, demonstrating Australian consumers’ appetite for well-priced, technology-rich vehicles.
The presence of the Song Pro DM-i on Australian test routes suggests BYD is seriously considering this model as a strategic addition to their lineup. Currently positioned beneath the Sealion 6, which starts from $42,990 before on-road costs, the Song Pro could potentially slot into the high-$30,000 range for entry-level variants.
Technical Specifications and Performance
Power and Efficiency
The Song Pro DM-i represents BYD’s latest evolution in plug-in hybrid technology, featuring their advanced fifth-generation DM-i system. This sophisticated powertrain combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering seamless transitions between electric and hybrid operation modes.
Real-world testing conducted in China has demonstrated impressive fuel efficiency figures, with the Song Pro DM-i achieving as low as 3.06 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving conditions. Some urban highway reports suggest even better efficiency, with figures as low as 2.6 litres per 100 kilometres under optimal conditions.
Battery Options and Range
Australian consumers can expect two distinct battery configurations should BYD proceed with the local launch. The entry-level variant features a 12.9kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack, while the premium specification includes an 18.3kWh unit. These battery sizes translate to electric-only ranges of approximately 60-80 kilometres and 90-120 kilometres respectively, making them ideal for daily commuting without relying on the petrol engine.
The larger battery configuration promises a total combined range exceeding 2,100 kilometres, addressing range anxiety concerns that have traditionally hindered plug-in hybrid adoption. This extensive range capability positions the Song Pro DM-i as an excellent option for Australian families who frequently undertake longer interstate journeys.
Design Philosophy and Interior Features
Exterior Styling
The Song Pro DM-i showcases BYD’s distinctive “Dragon Face” design language, featuring a prominent chrome-accented grille flanked by sleek LED headlight assemblies. The vehicle’s sculptured side profile incorporates aerodynamic elements designed to enhance efficiency, while the rear features a full-width LED taillight bar that enhances both visibility and contemporary appeal.
Despite being smaller than the Sealion 6, the Song Pro maintains commanding road presence through carefully proportioned dimensions and confident stance. The design successfully balances modern aesthetics with practical functionality, creating a vehicle that appeals to both style-conscious buyers and pragmatic families.
Interior Technology and Comfort
Inside, the Song Pro DM-i delivers the technological sophistication that has become synonymous with BYD vehicles. The centerpiece is a large rotating touchscreen display, supporting BYD’s comprehensive DiLink infotainment system with extensive third-party application compatibility and continuous voice recognition capabilities.
Standard equipment includes an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster that provides real-time efficiency data, helping drivers optimise their driving style for maximum fuel economy. Premium variants receive a larger 15-inch central display, further enhancing the premium feel and functionality.
Comfort features encompass artificial leather seating surfaces, power driver seat adjustment, and independent rear suspension for improved ride quality. The cabin design prioritises practical storage solutions, including generous door pockets, centre console compartments, and convenient wireless charging facilities for mobile devices.
Market Context and Competition
The Australian PHEV Landscape
The timing of the Song Pro DM-i’s potential Australian debut couldn’t be more strategic. The plug-in hybrid SUV segment is expected to intensify significantly throughout 2026, particularly with Toyota’s next-generation RAV4 PHEV arrival. Current competitors include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Lexus NX450h+, and Cupra Formentor VZe, though these models typically command significantly higher price points.
Recent changes to Australian government incentives have shifted the landscape somewhat. While plug-in hybrid vehicles previously enjoyed full fringe benefits tax exemption when purchased through novated lease arrangements, this benefit was restricted to battery electric vehicles from April 1, 2025. However, the Song Pro DM-i’s competitive pricing strategy could offset this disadvantage for many buyers.
Pricing Expectations
Current Chinese pricing provides fascinating insight into potential Australian market positioning. In China, the Song Pro DM-i starts from approximately $23,000 AUD for the 12kWh Ultra trim, rising to around $27,000 AUD for the fully-equipped 18kWh Excellence variant. These remarkably aggressive prices reflect intense competition within China’s rapidly expanding new energy vehicle market.
Australian pricing will inevitably be higher due to import duties, local compliance requirements, and dealer margins. However, industry observers suggest BYD could potentially position the base Song Pro DM-i around $35,000-$38,000, significantly undercutting traditional PHEV competitors while maintaining healthy profit margins.
Safety and Advanced Features
Blade Battery Technology
One of the Song Pro DM-i’s most significant technological advantages lies in BYD’s proprietary Blade Battery technology. These lithium iron phosphate cells offer exceptional safety characteristics, having successfully passed the industry’s most stringent nail penetration tests without fire or smoke emission.
The unique flat rectangular cell design improves both cooling efficiency and preheating performance, while the structural integration allows each cell to function as a load-bearing beam. This innovative approach increases space utilisation by approximately 50% compared to traditional battery architectures, directly contributing to enhanced energy density and range capabilities.
Driver Assistance Systems
Expected safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, comprehensive airbag protection including six units covering front, side, and curtain positions, blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition, and emergency braking capabilities. These features align with Australian consumer expectations for modern vehicle safety standards.
Additional convenience features likely include 360-degree panoramic camera systems, lane-keeping assistance, and Apple device NFC key support, allowing vehicle access without traditional key fobs.
Environmental Impact and Efficiency
The Song Pro DM-i’s environmental credentials extend beyond simple fuel efficiency figures. The vehicle offers multiple driving modes including pure electric operation for emission-free urban commuting, intelligent hybrid mode for optimised efficiency during longer journeys, and battery-saving mode for strategic charge management.
During electric-only operation, the Song Pro delivers whisper-quiet operation ideal for early morning departures or late-night arrivals in residential areas. The seamless transition between driving modes ensures optimal efficiency regardless of journey type or traffic conditions.
Future Implications for BYD Australia
The Song Pro DM-i‘s testing represents more than just another model addition to BYD’s Australian portfolio. It signals the company’s commitment to offering consumers genuine choice across multiple price points and vehicle categories.
With Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard implementation approaching, manufacturers will increasingly favour electric and plug-in hybrid models to meet regulatory requirements. BYD’s expanding PHEV lineup, potentially including the Song Pro DM-i alongside the existing Sealion 6 and upcoming Shark 6 hybrid utility, positions them advantageously for this transition.
The success of this potential launch could influence BYD’s broader Australian strategy, potentially accelerating the introduction of additional models from their extensive global lineup. Consumer acceptance of the Song Pro DM-i could pave the way for other compact and affordable electrified options currently unavailable in the Australian market.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the BYD Song Pro DM-i be available in Australia? While BYD has not officially confirmed the Song Pro DM-i for Australian sale, the recent road testing suggests a potential launch timeline within 2025-2026, likely following the completion of local market evaluation and compliance testing.
How does the Song Pro DM-i compare to the current Sealion 6? The Song Pro DM-i is positioned as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the Sealion 6, potentially offering similar technology and efficiency in a more compact package with expected pricing several thousand dollars below the Sealion 6’s $42,990 starting price.
What kind of fuel efficiency can Australian buyers expect? Based on international testing, the Song Pro DM-i achieves approximately 3.06 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving conditions, with some reports suggesting as low as 2.6 litres per 100 kilometres in optimal urban highway conditions, making it one of the most efficient SUVs available.