BYD has entered Australia’s high-end people-mover market with the M9, a luxury plug-in hybrid van offering up to 145 kilometers of electric-only range and a total driving distance of 850 kilometers. It targets established premium models at a much lower price.
The 5.14-meter van comes in seven- and eight-seat versions for families and executive fleets. Its styling draws on traditional Chinese gardens. Horizontal and vertical lines frame a front end shaped to resemble a dragon. Inside, the M9 Premium has heated and ventilated front seats. The second row features individual seats with a near-zero-gravity recline, plus heating and ventilation. There’s a 470-liter luggage area even with every seat in use, and the van can tow up to 1,500 kg with brakes.
The M9 will be BYD’s first people-mover in Australia. Local release is scheduled between October and December 2026, information from leading Australian automotive outlets. The Premium is due before the more affordable Dynamic. That timing puts it in direct competition with established players such as the Kia Carnival, across family and corporate markets.
Under the bonnet, the M9 uses BYD’s DM-i 5.0 hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with an electric motor. The Premium model has a 36.60 kWh BYD Blade battery. Based on WLTP standards, it delivers up to 145 kilometers of electric range and 850 kilometers of total range on a full charge and tank. The Dynamic has a smaller 20.39 kWh battery and a shorter electric range, with efficiency as its focus. Both models support AC and DC charging. They also have vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability to power external devices.
The M9’s technology includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. It also has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus over-the-air updates and four-zone voice control. An integrated fridge and thermal compartment can cool from -6 to 6 degrees or heat from 35 to 50 degrees. Augmented reality projection technology provides access to the electric sliding doors and tailgate.
BYD has equipped the M9 with a body made from 73% high-strength steel and up to nine airbags. Its safety equipment also includes a 360-degree camera system, five millimeter-wave radars and eight ultrasonic sensors. The van gets a full set of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The eight-seat M9 Dynamic starts at 61,990 Australian dollars (about 38,463 euros). The seven-seat M9 Premium starts at 72,990 Australian dollars (around 45,300 euros). Reports from carsales.com.au and other industry sources say BYD’s prices undercut most established competitors, making the M9 an option for buyers seeking value.
The M9 is the seventh new model BYD has launched in twelve months, with each aimed at a different market segment. Stephen Collins, BYD Australia’s chief operating officer, told local media that the M9 reflects the brand’s push to deliver top electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to Australians.
The M9’s launch comes soon after the Denza Z9S, which set new range records in the luxury EV market. The M9’s arrival is another step in BYD’s plan to reach more buyers and reshape expectations for premium transport.
