BYD’s latest sub-brand, Fang Cheng Bao, is gaining momentum as it unveils the official name of its inaugural model. The brand, which was introduced on June 9 as the fifth addition to BYD’s brand matrix, following the Dynasty series, Ocean series, Denza, and Yangwang, has christened its first vehicle as the Leopard 5 (“豹5” in Chinese), according to an announcement made today on Weibo.
Fang Cheng Bao, a name that translates to “Formula” and “Leopard,” embodies BYD’s commitment to a transformative ascent and exploration of the digital landscape. This new brand is set to make its mark with a hardcore SUV, previously referred to by the code SF, and it is anticipated to hit the market later this year.
While specific pricing details for the Leopard 5 have not been disclosed in the recent previews, industry sources have indicated that it will target a price range between RMB 400,000 ($55,410) and RMB 600,000. Xiong Tianbo, the former head of BYD auto’s sales research institute, has been appointed as the general manager of Fang Cheng Bao’s sales division. He will spearhead product planning, channel sales, and brand development, according to reliable insiders.
Speculations have arisen regarding the powertrain of Fang Cheng Bao’s debut model, with rumors suggesting the integration of BYD’s DM-o hybrid system. This would make it the third addition to BYD’s hybrid lineup, alongside the DM-i and DM-p models. While the DM-i prioritizes fuel efficiency and the DM-p emphasizes performance, the DM-o is expected to leverage the technical advantages of both, offering an impressive combined range of up to 1,200 km and a total powertrain output of up to 500 kW, as reported by various local media outlets.
BYD currently divides its monthly sales equally between battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). With its new sub-brand Fang Cheng Bao and the anticipated launch of the Leopard 5, BYD aims to further strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
