Fang Cheng Bao, BYD's high-performance sub-brand, has introduced the Formula S line in China, available in two body styles: the Formula S coupe sedan and the Formula S GT sports wagon.
Starting prices range from the equivalent of R$ 145,274 (189,900 yuan) up to R$ 183,524 (239,900 yuan), promising a range of up to 900 km under the Chinese CLTC cycle. The main competitors targeted by this launch are the Xiaomi SU7 and the Tesla Model 3.
Created in 2023 with a focus on off-road and adventure vehicles, Fang Cheng Bao is using this new family to enter the competitive segment of electric sports sedans in the Chinese market. Specifically, the Formula S model costs between 189,900 and 229,900 yuan (equivalent to R$ 145,274 to R$ 175,874), while the GT version costs between 219,900 and 239,900 yuan (R$ 168,224 to R$ 183,524).
In terms of dimensions, the sedan measures 5.06 m in length, 1.97 m in width, and 1.48 m in height. The wagon is slightly smaller and lower, measuring 5.03 m and 1.46 m, but both share a common wheelbase of 2.96 m. The design was inspired by the Formula X, Fang Cheng Bao's own electric supercar, resulting in aerodynamic coefficients of 0.22 for the sedan and 0.25 for the wagon.
A notable technical advancement is the DiSus-M intelligent suspension, which uses magnetorheological fluid to make adjustments in milliseconds, seeking an ideal balance between comfort and stability. The manufacturer also highlighted that its electric architecture allows for ultra-fast charging, enabling the battery to go from 10% to 70% in just five minutes, or from 10% to 97% in nine minutes.
In terms of performance, rear-wheel-drive versions offer power outputs of 333 hp or 408 hp, while all-wheel-drive versions reach 666 hp. The maximum range of 900 km is achieved only in the rear-wheel-drive sedan versions; however, this figure refers to the CLTC protocol, a Chinese standard known for being optimistic and often exceeding results measured by Inmetro in Brazil.
The vehicle interiors are equipped with various advanced features, including a 26-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD), a sound system signed by Devialet, and zero-gravity seats. The cabin also features modular interfaces with magnetic mounts and threads, allowing for the installation of accessories such as ambient lighting, quick-access physical buttons, and even karaoke equipment.
Driver assistance is provided by BYD's intermediate God’s Eye B package, supported by LiDAR sensors, offering autonomous navigation functionalities on both highways and urban roads. Currently, the Formula S series is restricted to the Chinese market, and BYD has not yet announced plans to commercialize it in other countries.