BEIJING MOTOR SHOW: BYD Ocean-M electric hot hatch unveiled
All-new Chinese hatchback is rear-wheel drive, all-electric and looks pretty coolA battery-electric rear-wheel drive hot hatch is the latest surprise new model to join BYD’s ever-expanding line-up and it could become a direct rival for the popular MG4.
Dubbed the Ocean-M and presented as a very production-looking concept, it was one of the three new passenger cars the Chinese mega-brand launched at the Beijing show today.
Notably missing from the stage was the new BYD Shark dual-cab ute.
Little has been revealed about the Ocean-M apart from it being based on a new EV platform and being described by BYD as the “industry’s first rear-wheel drive hot hatch”.
The show car certainly fits the bill with its bright orange paint, black trimmings and prominent rear spoiler, making it look a lot like the MG4.
Its name would seem to clash with the Ocean SUV launched overseas by Fisker. But the US start-up’s future is in doubt right now so it remains to be seen whether a name change is demanded.
Chinese media outlets are reporting the Ocean-M is expected on sale domestically in the third quarter (July-September) of 2024 with pricing between 150,000 and 200,000 yuan.
That equates to $A31,700-$42,300, which sounds pretty tasty even if you take into account inevitable higher prices in Australia – if it ever comes here.
Just as a comparison, the all-wheel drive MG4 XPOWER retails for $59,990 drive-away.
We’ve reached out to local BYD importer EVDirect to find out if there’s local interest.
Given its massive expansion and product roll-out plans there seems a very good chance the Ocean-M will head our way.
The Ocean-M was the finale of today’s BYD’s presentation in Beijing, which also included the Qin L and Seal 06 sedans featuring the company’s latest fifth-generation DM-i plug-in hybrid tech.
EVDirect has previously signalled an interest in bringing the Toyota Camry-sized Quin L here to compete in the Uber market.
Related: BYD Shark confirmed as Chinese brand’s Ford Ranger ute fighter
Related: Toyota-fighting BYD off-road brand ‘under discussion’ for Australia
Related: BYD announces stunning Australian sales and new model ambitions
Related: BYD targets provincial Australia for growth
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