The BYD e6 electric people carrier, well-regarded for its popularity among private hire drivers and commercial fleet operators such as taxi services and car-sharing platforms, has received a subtle yet noteworthy update. While the exterior design remains the same as the 2021 model, the e6’s latest iteration comes with improved performance, more power, and enhanced passenger space.

What’s new on the updated e6? : The updated e6 retains the same appearance as its predecessor, with no significant changes in its external design. However, BYD introduced a similar model, the M6, last year, which is a variation of the e6. The M6 offers a sleeker and more modern look, and it is specifically aimed at private car buyers rather than fleet operators.

The most significant changes to the e6 are found under the hood. The electric motor has been upgraded, now producing 134hp and 250Nm of torque, which is a substantial increase from the previous 94hp and 180Nm. This upgrade boosts the e6’s power and provides a more capable driving experience. Another important change is the improvement in charging speed. The e6 can now accept up to 90kW DC fast charging, a noticeable upgrade from the 60kW maximum charging speed of the previous model. This allows the vehicle to achieve a full charge in just over an hour, down from an hour and a half. This faster charging time offers a significant benefit to drivers who rely on quick turnarounds during their daily operations.

In addition to the performance improvements, the e6 now accommodates seven passengers instead of just five. The addition of two extra seats makes it a more versatile option for families or fleet operators requiring larger capacity. The seats can be folded down to increase boot space, offering greater flexibility for cargo. This is a major improvement over the previous e6, where the rear bench seat was fixed, limiting its flexibility.

Can I buy one?: Currently, BYD is offering the updated e6 exclusively to private hire drivers and fleet operators. As a result, the e6 is not available for direct retail purchase. While there is no official retail price, it is estimated that the vehicle will cost just under $150,000, including COE (Certificate of Entitlement).

To support e6 customers, Vantage Automotive Limited, the official distributor for BYD cars in Singapore, provides peace of mind with free servicing and a 10-year or 500,000km battery warranty (whichever comes first). In addition, new e6 owners will receive a 20% discount on charging rates with selected operators for the first year of ownership. Other incentives include flexible financing options and free gifts like an in-car camera and solar film installation, further enhancing the appeal of the updated e6 for commercial use.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Ben Chia.