BYD may launch the first MPV under its Ocean lineup by the end of 2026, according to Zhang Zhuo, general manager of BYD’s Ocean lineup sales division. The planned model would expand the lineup into a new vehicle segment, although the company has not yet disclosed its name, specifications or pricing.
Zhang revealed the potential launch timeline in an interview with Weibo automotive blogger @向北不断电 on Sunday, describing the planned MPV as a “one-of-a-kind offering” in the market.
Ocean Lineup Prepares for MPV Expansion
BYD has not confirmed whether the upcoming MPV will be the production version of the Ocean-V concept unveiled at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show in April.
The Ocean-V concept presented a combination of off-road-oriented design, camping functions and in-car entertainment features. Its interior was designed without conventional physical buttons, while the central display could move sideways.
The concept also featured different cabin configurations. In movie mode, the steering wheel retracts and a large display emerges from the dashboard. Camping mode allows the two rows of seats to face each other or fold flat to create a bed.
BYD previously said some of the Ocean-V’s design elements and features would gradually appear in production vehicles under the Ocean lineup. However, the company has not established a direct connection between the concept and the MPV planned for launch.
BYD Expands Its MPV Portfolio
The potential Ocean MPV would add another model to BYD Group’s growing presence in the MPV segment.
The group currently sells MPVs through several channels, including the Xia under the Dynasty lineup, the Denza D9 and the Linghui M9.
The 2026 Xia uses a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and front-mounted electric motor. It offers CLTC battery-only ranges of 100 kilometres and 218 kilometres, depending on configuration.
The Linghui M9, launched in June, uses BYD’s fifth-generation DM hybrid technology and offers a combined range of 1,105 kilometres on a full tank and full charge. The model is primarily aimed at business mobility and family customers.
Ocean Could Become BYD’s Fourth MPV Channel
Denza launched the second-generation D9 on April 28 with a starting price of 359,800 yuan ($53,040), targeting the premium MPV market. Sales reached 7,678 units in July and 39,402 units from January through July.
If BYD proceeds with the Ocean MPV launch by the end of the year, the BYD Group’s MPV portfolio would span four channels: Dynasty, Ocean, Denza and Linghui.
Further details on the Ocean MPV, including its powertrain, battery technology, range, dimensions and pricing, have yet to be announced.
