BYD’s new cars: downgraded performance with higher prices—is this move serious?
Recently, BYD launched the Seagull 05 DM and the 2025 Song Pro DM. Apart from their names and slight differences in appearance, these two models are nearly identical in every other aspect. What’s even more puzzling is that, compared to the 2024 Song Pro, the new models come with downgraded performance but higher prices! What is BYD playing at? Are they really aiming to exploit consumers?
01. Reduced Performance, Increased Price—Is This Justified?
Let's first look at the performance. Both the new Song Pro and Seagull 05 use BYD's fifth-generation DM hybrid system with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, but both horsepower and torque have been downgraded. The 2024 Song Pro's engine had a maximum horsepower of 110 HP and peak torque of 135 Nm, while the new models drop to 101 HP and 126 Nm. On the electric motor side, the older model delivered 145 kW of maximum power and 325 Nm of torque, whereas the new version only provides 120 kW and 210 Nm. This is undoubtedly a downgrade in performance!
Typically, a downgrade in performance means lower costs, but the new Song Pro is priced around 3.000 yuan higher than the 2024 model. In terms of features, the new version makes side airbags standard across all trims, and the mid- to low-end versions upgrade the central control screen to 12.8 inches. High-end models gain a few extra sensors and ambient lighting, but oddly enough, the number of speakers has been reduced. This set of changes is perplexing, to say the least.
The 2024 Song Pro was priced between 109.800 and 139.800 yuan, while the new Song Pro and Seagull 05 range from 112.800 to 142.800 yuan. While the new models are slightly more expensive, the difference isn’t huge. The safety features in the mid- and low-range models have indeed improved, but the performance has been downgraded.
02. Targeting Families with Performance Compromises?
BYD's strategy here may be to target the family market, sacrificing some performance in exchange for better fuel economy. After all, for most family buyers, fuel efficiency is more important than performance. However, for young consumers who prioritize performance, this may be less appealing.
03. Is BYD Exploiting Consumers? Not Necessarily!
So, does the pricing of the new models count as exploiting consumers? Two years ago, the lowest-priced Song Pro DM-i was over 130.000 yuan. Now, the price has dropped by more than 20.000 yuan, with only some adjustments to performance and a few extra features. An increase of 3.000 yuan isn’t much in this context. After all, it was BYD that ignited the price war in the plug-in hybrid market, and with prices being so competitive now, it’s unrealistic to expect too much.
04. BYD’s Strategic Calculation
BYD’s decision to release two nearly identical models may be part of a broader strategy to target a wider market using different branding and marketing approaches. The Seagull 05 caters to BYD's Ocean network, while the Song Pro DM-i is positioned under the Dynasty network. With similar configurations and prices, these two models can cater to different consumer preferences.
Finally, here’s a question: with downgraded performance and increased prices, would you choose the new BYD Song Pro DM-i or the Seagull 05? What’s your take on this?
Relevant News and Data (Subject to Further Verification):
- China’s new energy vehicle sales are expected to reach 10 million units by 2025.
- BYD’s new energy vehicle sales exceeded 1.25 million units in the first half of 2025.
- Competition in China’s new energy vehicle market is becoming increasingly fierce, with automakers introducing new models one after another.
- As fuel prices continue to rise, consumer demand for new energy vehicles is growing.
Case Studies:
- One consumer said they prioritize fuel efficiency and price over performance, so they would choose the new Song Pro DM-i.
- Another consumer, who values the driving experience and performance, said they would opt for other brands due to the performance downgrade.
