Prominent Chinese automotive player, BYD, has launched a new SUV brand called Fang Cheng Bao, adding to its comprehensive lineup of vehicles. The debut model, the Leopard 5, is a plug-in hybrid SUV designed to handle cityscapes and challenging off-road conditions.
The design of the Leopard 5 marries traditional and contemporary off-road elements, incorporating angular fenders, metallic-look skid plates, and a spare wheel attached to the rear. Depending on the model variant, customers can choose between 18-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires or 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport tyres.
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The vehicle is comparably sized to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, with overall dimensions of 4,890 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, 1,920 mm in height, and a 2,800 mm wheelbase, emphasizing its sturdy build and off-road functionality.
Introduced at the Chengdu Motor Show, the Leopard 5’s off-road prowess was a focal point. It features a 39-degree approach angle, a 35-degree departure angle, and a 27-degree breakover angle. The SUV also boasts a notable ground clearance of 310 mm, which can be further enhanced by up to 140 mm through the Disus-P suspension system developed by BYD. This system significantly improves the vehicle’s performance on rough terrains.
The Leopard 5 utilizes a ladder-frame construction and is equipped with BYD’s Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) plug-in hybrid system. This system includes a 1.5-liter gasoline engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined power output of 505 kW and 760 N.m of torque. This allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 km/h. Its four-wheel-drive system, featuring three differential locks, ensures enhanced traction and stability across various surfaces.
With the launch of the Fang Cheng Bao Leopard 5, BYD continues to expand into the high-end SUV segment, offering a blend of sophisticated hybrid technology and robust off-road capabilities aimed at enthusiasts who desire a high-performance, versatile vehicle.
