BYD M6 electric MPV launched at GIIAS 2024; price begins at RM 109k

KUALA LUMPUR: The Chinese automaker BYD took everyone by surprise at the 2024 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show with the launch of an all-electric MPV, called the M6. The MPV is specially designed for the Indonesian market keeping in mind the Indonesian culture which emphasises strong family relationships and joint activities. 

BYD Indonesia offers the BED minivan in three variants - Standard 7-seater, Superior 7-seater, and Superior Captain 6-seater, priced as follows - 

• BYD M6 Standard 7-seater - IDR 379,000,000 (RM 109,479)
• BYD M6 Superior 7-seater - IDR 419,000,000 (RM 121,033)
• BYD M6 Superior Captain 6-seater - IDR 429,000,000 (RM 123,917)

In terms of design, the M6 looks like a modernised version of the BYD e6 that was previously earmarked to launch in Malaysia. It boasts the brand’s latest design language featuring a full-width silver bar on the front with the BYD script. The EV is also kitted with multi-projector LED headlights, wing-shaped front bumper inserts, stylish full-width tail lights mated to a subtle chrome strip and 17-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels.

The EV is offered in four striking colour options, namely Crystal White, Ink Stone Blue, Cosmos Black, and Harbor Grey.

In terms of drivetrain, the base-spec model comes powered by a single motor mounted on the front axle, which delivers a maximum power of 163 PS and a peak torque of 310 Nm. The Superior trims, on the contrary, are equipped with a more powerful motor good for making 204 PS and the same 310 Nm of torque.

The motor is fed by a 55.4 kWh capacity on the Standard variant and a larger 71.8 kWh unit on the Superior variants, offering an NEDC-rated range of 420 km and 530 km, respectively. The EV supports up to 115 kW of DC fast charging in the higher-spec models, juicing up the battery from 10 to 80% in just 40 minutes.

Inside the BYD M6, we can get a horizontal dashboard with analogue metres, a five-inch multi-info display, and a 12.8-inch rotating screen. Depending on the variant chosen, the EV comes equipped with an automatic air conditioning system, 360-degree camera system, Qi wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, cruise control, a vehicle-to-load function, keyless entry, push-button start, an NFC key card, power-adjustable ventilated front seats, and panoramic sunroof.

As for safety, BYD has packed the electric minivan with 6 airbags and a BYD Intelligent Driving System. The latter comprises adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane centering assist, automatic high beam, and blind spot monitoring.

Apart from the BYD M6, the automaker’s booth at the event also previews a full-size luxury SUV, the Yangwang U8.

Also read: New BYD Dolphin EV revealed in China; gets bigger battery packs for 2025