BYD could introduce its first multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) under the Ocean lineup before the end of 2026, according to a company executive. The announcement follows the unveiling of the Ocean-V concept at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, which hinted at new directions for BYD’s MPV offerings.
BYD Executive Hints at Ocean MPV Launch
Zhang Zhuo, general manager of BYD’s Ocean lineup sales division, revealed in an interview with Weibo automotive blogger @向北不断电 that the company may launch its first MPV under the Ocean lineup by year-end. Zhang did not share details about the model’s name, specifications, or pricing, nor did he confirm if it would be based on the Ocean-V concept.
Ocean-V Concept Showcases Potential Features
BYD showcased the Ocean-V concept at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show in April, offering a glimpse of what the Ocean lineup’s MPV could offer. The concept vehicle combines off-road capability, camping features, and in-car entertainment. Its cabin is designed without physical buttons, and the center screen can slide sideways.
In movie mode, the steering wheel retracts and a large screen emerges from the dashboard. Camping mode allows the two rows of seats to either face each other or fold flat to form a bed. BYD stated that some of the Ocean-V’s design elements and features would gradually appear in production models under the Ocean lineup, but has not confirmed any direct connection to the upcoming MPV
Current BYD MPV Offerings
BYD Group’s current MPV lineup includes the Xia under the Dynasty series, the D9 from the Denza sub-brand, and the Linghui M9, which is based on the Xia and targets the mobility services market.
The 2026 Xia, launched last November, features a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a front-mounted electric motor, offering CLTC battery-only ranges of 100 kilometers (~62 miles) and 218 kilometers (~135 miles). Xia sales have declined sharply in 2026, with 1,300 units delivered in July (down 76.7% year-on-year) and 10,922 units delivered in the first seven months (down 79.5%).
The Linghui M9, launched in June, uses BYD’s fifth-generation DM hybrid technology and has a combined range of 1,105 kilometers (~687 miles) on a full tank and charge. It is aimed at both business mobility and family buyers.
Denza introduced the second-generation Denza D9 on April 28, targeting the premium market with a starting price of $53,359 (~AUD 74,526). The Denza D9 recorded 7,678 units sold in July and 39,402 units from January through July.
Why this matters
If BYD proceeds with the Ocean lineup MPV launch, its MPV portfolio will expand to cover four distinct channels: Dynasty, Ocean, Denza, and Linghui. This move could further strengthen BYD’s presence in the MPV segment, offering more choices to both family and business buyers.
The introduction of new features from the Ocean-V concept into production models may also set new benchmarks for innovation and versatility in the MPV market.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in BYD’s MPV offerings should watch for further announcements regarding the Ocean lineup MPV, especially if they are seeking advanced features and flexible interior configurations. Those considering a purchase in the near term may want to compare the existing Xia, Linghui M9, and Denza D9 models, as each targets different market segments and use cases.
Key Specs
- Ocean-V Concept Features: Off-road capability, camping features, in-car entertainment, no physical buttons, sliding center screen
- 2026 Xia Battery-Only Range (CLTC): 100 km (~62 miles) and 218 km (~135 miles)
- Linghui M9 Combined Range: 1,105 km (~687 miles)
- Denza D9 Starting Price: $53,359 (~AUD 74,526)
- Denza D9 July Sales: 7,678 units
- Denza D9 Jan-Jul Sales: 39,402 units
- Xia July Deliveries: 1,300 units (down 76.7% YoY)
- Xia Jan-Jul Deliveries: 10,922 units (down 79.5%)
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, autoindustriya.com
