BYD's e-Series Expansion: A Closer Look at the New S2 Electric SUV

The year has flown by, and we’re already at mid-year. In the first half alone, BYD has launched several new models, including updates to its Dynasty series and the introduction of the all-new e-Series.

On March 21, BYD officially unveiled the e-Series, which is set to release three sedans and two SUVs within the year, with more models planned for the future. Born on the e-Platform, the e-Series shares its technological roots with the Dynasty EV series but differs in focus: while the Dynasty EVs emphasize technology and performance, the e-Series prioritizes “quality affordability” and a “smart driving experience.”

In simple terms, all e-Series models are purely electric—there are no fuel or plug-in hybrid versions. Their range is generally lower than that of the Dynasty EV series, and they are positioned in the sub-¥150,000 segment. For consumers in small to mid-sized cities who aren’t overly concerned about range, the e-Series offers an appealing combination of low price and low operating costs.

Last night, BYD launched the S2, the first all-electric compact SUV under the e-Series. It is available in four trims—Chuang (Base), Yao (Mid), Zhi (Tech), and Yue (Premium)—priced between ¥89,800 and ¥109,800.

Exterior

The BYD S2 closely resembles the Yuan New Energy model, with the main difference lying in the front grille design. The S2 features a hexagonal grille under the Dragon Face design language, adorned with a dotted chrome pattern instead of the horizontal bars found on the Yuan New Energy. Additionally, the S2 uses a blue-background BYD badge instead of the Chinese character badge used for Dynasty series models.

The headlights are identical to those of the Yuan, with halogen high and low beams and standard LED daytime running lights. The S2 measures 4,100 mm in length, 1,785 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,535 mm. While it is slightly shorter than the Yuan New Energy (4,360 mm), the side profiles are nearly indistinguishable except for the absence of a spare tire on the S2.

At the rear, the S2 removes the Yuan’s spare tire-mounted “backpack,” and no spare tire is stored under the trunk floor either.

Interior

Despite its lower positioning compared to the Yuan New Energy, the S2’s interior doesn’t cut corners. It shares its dashboard design with the Yuan EV535, including a rotatable central touchscreen that reduces physical buttons for a cleaner, more modern look compared to the Yuan EV360.

The 10.1-inch central screen is nearly identical to those in the Dynasty series—rotatable, equipped with an octa-core processor, and supporting the DiLink connectivity system. The floating-style digital instrument cluster is the same as those in the Yuan EV535 and Qin Pro.

Battery

The S2 uses a lithium ternary battery with a capacity of 40.62 kWh. The battery cells come with a lifetime warranty, and the vehicle offers a comprehensive range of 305 km under standard test conditions.

It supports both AC (slow) and DC (fast) charging. The fast-charging port is located next to the front BYD badge, while the slow-charging port is on the right rear side, where a fuel door would typically be. Fast charging can replenish the battery in about 1.1 hours. It’s currently unknown whether the S2 supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) power discharge.

Powertrain

Although positioned below Dynasty EV models, the S2 still utilizes the e-Platform’s three-electric tech. It is powered by an AC permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 70 kW (94 hp) and 180 N·m of torque, paired with a single-speed fixed-ratio transmission.

The gear selector is a rotary knob commonly used in EVs, and the vehicle offers two driving modes: Eco and Sport. Due to cost considerations, the S2 uses a foot-operated parking brake instead of an electronic parking brake.

The suspension setup consists of a front MacPherson strut and a rear torsion beam.

Target Audience & Pricing

Given its price point, the S2 is expected to forgo most comfort-oriented features, focusing instead on meeting basic mobility needs consistent with its entry-level positioning.

Sales Channels

BYD’s first batch of e-Store dealers has officially begun operations. The e-Store concept emphasizes economy, youthfulness, and quality, with experience stores already open in over 100 cities across China—a number that continues to grow monthly.

The S2 will be sold through this new network, further lowering the entry barrier to BYD’s new energy vehicle lineup.

Final Thoughts

BYD already offered an extensive range of new energy vehicles. Now, with the starting price lowered to just ¥89,800, the brand’s strategy of covering both the premium and mass-market segments deserves recognition.

This article is generated by Jiasou TideFlow AIGC GEO