BYD Introduces Dual Mode Hybrid Technology at GIIAS 2026, Claims Fuel Savings of up to 65 Km/L

JAKARTA - PT BYD Motor Indonesia utilizes the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026 to hold Media Tech Auto Talk, an educational forum that discusses the development of new energy vehicles or New Energy Vehicles (NEV).

During the session, BYD introduced the electric-first philosophy that became the basis for the development of Dual Mode (DM) technology, as well as explaining the three hybrid platforms it developed, namely DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligent), DM-p (Dual Mode Powerful), and DMO (Dual Mode Off-road).

Dual Mode technology combines an electric motor with an internal combustion engine through an energy management system that works automatically. The electric-first concept places the electric motor as the main driver in most driving conditions, while the hybrid engine will be active to charge the battery or add power when needed.

This system is designed so that the mode shift takes place smoothly, resulting in a quieter, responsive, and efficient driving experience. BYD summarizes the characteristics of the technology in the GASS concept, an abbreviation of Fast, Reliable, Silent, and Super Efficient.

Dual Mode technology itself has evolved since it was first introduced in 2008 and is now entering the fifth generation or DM 5.0 with improvements in the efficiency, performance, and energy management sectors. The implementation of the electric-first philosophy in Indonesia is realized through the BYD M6 DM which is the company's first model with Dual Mode technology in the country.

His presence is said to be proof of the increasing consumer interest in vehicles that combine efficiency, performance, and flexibility in one package.

"For more than two decades, BYD has been one of the pioneers in the development of Dual Mode Technology, which has now evolved to the fifth generation. This experience is our foundation in presenting electrification solutions that can meet various mobility needs," said Head of Public and Government Relations PT BYD Motor Indonesia Luther Panjaitan, at ICE BSD, Wednesday, August 5.

"In Indonesia, we really appreciate the public's enthusiasm for this technology, which is reflected in more than 4,000 orders for the BYD M6 DM since it was introduced. This response shows that the public is not only becoming more open to more efficient mobility solutions, but also has an interest in understanding the underlying technology," he continued.

BYD divides Dual Mode technology into three approaches. DM-i is developed to prioritize fuel efficiency and daily driving comfort, DM-p is focused on high performance with all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, while DMO is designed for vehicles that require the ability to cross various off-road terrain.

On the DM-i platform, BYD relies on a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated hybrid engine that is claimed to have a thermal efficiency of up to 46.06 percent. The engine is combined with an Electric Hybrid System (EHS) that integrates an electric motor and a drive system in a more compact unit.

Based on the company's internal simulation, the BYD M6 DM is able to record fuel consumption of up to 65 km per liter on a simulation of a trip of around 150 kilometers with a battery and fuel tank in full condition. Meanwhile, the DM-p uses a 1.5-liter turbo hybrid engine that produces a maximum power of 115 kW or 156 PS with a torque of 225 Nm.

The combination of electric motors on the front and rear wheels produces an AWD system that is claimed to be able to improve acceleration, traction, and driving stability without sacrificing energy efficiency. For heavy terrain needs, BYD presents DMO which still carries the electric-first concept.

This technology combines a longitudinal hybrid system, electric motors, a Cell-to-Chassis (CTC) structure, and a Hybrid Ladder Frame Body that is claimed to increase body rigidity by 38 percent. DMO also comes equipped with various driving modes such as Snow, Sand, Mud, Mountain, Rock, and Wading Mode and is applied to the premium Denza B5 and Denza B8 models.

In addition to offering performance, BYD also claims that Dual Mode technology is able to reduce vehicle ownership costs. Based on internal simulations, the DM-i platform has the potential to save operating costs of up to around 60 percent compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles with a capacity of 1,500 cc in the same segment.

Meanwhile, the results of national media testing are said to show operational cost efficiency of around 66 percent. On the maintenance side, service costs during the first three years are estimated to be reduced by 30 percent compared to conventional vehicles.

"As new energy vehicles develop, the public is now faced with a variety of technology options, each of which has its own characteristics and advantages. Therefore, we believe that innovation must go hand in hand with education," said Luther.

Through the development of Dual Mode technology, BYD confirms its commitment to providing various options for electrification solutions according to user needs. The company also stated that it would continue to expand education on new energy vehicles through collaboration with media, communities, educational institutions, customers, and various stakeholders in Indonesia.