BYD’s new sub-brand Fang Cheng Bao has unveiled the first official images of its debut model, the Leopard 5, ahead of its launch in China. BYD officially unveiled the Fang Cheng Bao brand on June 9 and announced on July 4 that its first model will be the Leopard 5.

The Leopard 5 will be available as a range extender (EREV). EREV or Extended Range Electric Vehicle is effectively an all-electric vehicle, with all the power provided by an electric motor, but with a small ICE present to generate additional electric power. They are designed to be run mostly by the battery but have a petrol or diesel generator to recharge the battery when the charge becomes low.

The Fang Cheng Bao will sit on BYD’s DM-o hybrid platform to generate over 500 kW of power. The SUV will do 0-100km/h acceleration in 4 seconds. The vehicle is expected to have a combined range of 1200 km with a full tank and battery. It is expected to use BYD’s Disus-P suspension system. According to Chinese media, the Leopard 5 is expected to have a  starting price of 400,000 RMB which is equivalent to Nrs 73.37 Lakh.

While BYD’s existing models target the sub-RMB 300,000 market, the introduction of sub-brands like Denza, Fang Cheng Bao, and Yangwang signals a move into the premium segment.