Chinese automakers Smart and BYD launch new plug‑in hybrid models for Europe

Smart, now owned by Geely, began sales of its premium plug‑in hybrid sedan #6 EHD in China. The model is priced at about RMB 177,900 (≈ 548 000 CZK) and combines a 1.5 L gasoline engine with a hybrid system that delivers up to 47.26 % thermal efficiency, a CLTC range of 1 810 km and standard LiDAR‑based driver assistance. Smart plans to showcase the production version at the Paris Motor Show in October and to extend the model to the European market.

Chinese EV maker BYD is preparing to sell the Dolphin G DM‑i plug‑in hybrid hatchback in the Czech Republic. The B‑segment hatchback offers a 7.42 kWh battery with up to 40 km electric‑only range in the base version, or a larger 18.3 kWh pack delivering 105 km electric range and a combined 1 040 km driving distance. Power comes from a 1.5 L gasoline engine paired with two electric motors, producing up to 156 kW. BYD targets a price around 600 000 CZK, positioning the Dolphin against models such as the Toyota Yaris, Škoda Fabia and Renault Clio. Both launches illustrate Chinese manufacturers’ strategy to broaden their portfolio beyond SUVs and enter the European plug‑in hybrid segment.