New arrival - BYD Qin

BYD Qin has an all-electric range of 70 km and a hybrid powertrain that can extend the car's total range to a distance similar to that of a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle. [Photo/China Daily]

Named after China's first empire - the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) - the plug-in hybrid compact sedan hit the market in late December. BYD Qin has an all-electric range of 70 km and a hybrid powertrain that can extend the car's total range to a distance similar to that of a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle.

With a length of 4,740 mm, width of 1,770 mm, and height of 1,480 mm, it features a 1.5 L engine and an electric one. Paired with a dual-clutch transmission, it has a peak power of 217 kW and a top torque of 479 Nm. The vehicle's wheelbase is 2,670 mm.

The model has two versions and is priced at between 189,800 yuan and 209,800 yuan. It is eligible for a central government subsidy of 35,000 yuan.