LONDON: Denza has presented its first SUV (sport utility vehicle) for European customers: the BAO 5 which features DMO off-road-focused plug-in hybrid technology.
Denza is the premium technology-oriented automotive brand of the BYD Group.
The BAO 5's mix of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and front and rear electric motors produces a maximum system output of 544PS, enough to take the 4.9-metre-long, five-seat SUV from 0-100kph in just 4.8 seconds.
And a ladder-frame chassis and DMO's clever control systems, plus DiSus-P intelligent hydraulic suspension, two electronic differentials and an energy centre lock, make the BAO 5 supremely versatile when the going gets tough.
BYD executive vice president Stella Li commented, “The flexibility of DMO means the BAO 5 is ready to conquer the unexpected – as appealing to urban users who like the idea of daily journeys on electricity alone as it is to those who want the ability to travel off road and go to 537 miles or 864km (WLTP Combined) on a full tank and a full charge."
The 31.8kWh Blade Battery in the BAO 5 can take the car 56 miles or 90km (WLTP Combined) on electricity alone.
The BAO 5 comes with 11kW three-phase AC charging as standard, capable of refilling the battery from 15% to 100% in just over three hours.
DC charging is also fitted as standard, and when connected to a minimum 100kW charger, it can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in just 16 minutes.
The new arrival measures 4,921mm long (Ultimate trim level), 1,970mm wide and 1,920mm tall – dimensions that help to deliver excellent cabin space.
The BAO 5's upright stance means generous headroom, even with the standard panoramic sunroof, and the long 2800mm wheelbase delivers excellent legroom for all cabin occupants.
The boot capacity (measured to the top of the seats) is a useful 475 litres, and the split rear seat can be folded down to extend this to 1,069 litres – or 1,736 litres when measured to the roof.
The rear motor assembly, optimised specifically for off-road driving, delivers up to 8,000Nm of wheel-end torque.
The BAO 5's petrol engine produces 150PS and 240Nm of torque on its own, but its primary role is to provide electricity to both the 31.8kWh Blade Battery and the electric motors.
As such, the BAO 5 provides a more EV-like driving experience, focusing on the instant response and adjustability that come with all-electric power – backed up by an efficient hybrid system that ensures long range.
The front and rear electric motors produce 272PS and 388PS respectively, and the BAO 5's maximum system output is 544PS and 760Nm of torque.
Both versions of the BAO 5 feature double-wishbone suspension front and rear.
The Ultimate addition addsDiSus-P, an intelligent body-control system, for even more advanced dynamic performance.
DiSus-P constantly integrates data from more than 20 sensors – everything from steering angle and the pedal position of both accelerator and brake, to the wheel speed, orientation and even pressure and temperature.
Meanwhile, front-seat passengers have a total of four screens, each with a distinct function.
The driver has access to a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel and a head-up display, and both occupants can use the 15.6-inch touchscreen (the largest of any premium SUV) in the centre of the dashboard to access the infotainment and key vehicle features.
The system incorporates Google built-in1 for Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store.
In addition, the front passenger also gets their own widescreen, directly in front of their seat, to allow them to use the entertainment system independently.
And the BAO 5 features its own voice assistant with four distinct zones of audio detection, allowing each occupant to interact personally with over 300 vehicle functions.
The BAO 5 has a premium theatre-grade audio system from French sound specialist Devialet.
Equipped with 18 speakers, the BAO 5's setup includes headrest speakers for an unparalleled immersive experience.
The car features three USB charging ports in the front (two Type C, one Type A) and two in the rear (one Type C, one Type A), along with a wireless smartphone-charging pad in Elegance versions, and two in Ultimate.
