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The first launch at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) is the all-new BYD eMAX9 DM-i. The eMAX 9 DM-i incorporates BYD’s electric vehicle technology, featuring intelligent performance, comfort, and design. The company has stated its intention to make advanced mobility available to Filipino families, emphasizing safety and practical ownership.
“The vehicle aims to establish a new standard in the mid-size MPV category and aligns with the brand’s focus on sustainable mobility,” Adam Hu, Country Head of BYD Philippines, told CleanTechnica. At the BYD media tour last month, Hu already revealed that the vehicle would land, but requested for a delay in the announcement pending the release at the PEVS. He also said that there are at least 3 more cars coming in before the middle of 2026.
“The BYD eMAX 9 DM-i represents the pinnacle of our electrified vehicle innovation, where technology and luxury move together in perfect harmony. It is an elegant statement of progress for Filipino families and professionals who seek sustainable mobility and value smart ownership,” Bob Palanca, Managing Director of BYD Cars Philippines, commented.
Attendees at the summit shared their initial impressions.
“I’m interested to see how this new MPV performs in the local market,” said Monica Romero-Santos, a doctor and current owner of a Toyota Alphard. Santos was with her husband Albert, an engineer for a geothermal project who commented that “we are changing our van and are seriously considering a hybrid or an EV. We’d like to know what there is in the market. We saw the Zeeker EV van which is very luxurious. We are now focusing on electric range and the many family-oriented features is very positive for us.”
Lech Quiambao, head of engineering for a logistics company, said that he was on the hunt for a vehicle to recommend to his mother, as they are also considering a transition into electric-powered vehicles. Her mother owns a customized Starex and a luxury Staria, and the low floor and captains chair of the eMAX 9 DM-i seemed perfect.
“The eMAX 9 DM-i technology is also compatible to her needs. She travels 80 kilometers from Batangas to Parañaque every day and the range is more than enough. We may need to install wall chargers if we do get the vehicle but the included home charger is already suitable,” Quiambao said.
“I am mostly after the luxury and comfort features,” said Lynette P., an entrepreneur from Tarlac. “My farms are spread out in many places in North Luzon and I imagine that this van can also be a recreational vehicle so I can rest when I go out.” Her family already owns a BYD Shark, and was one of the first 100 customers of the electric truck. Their household also boasts of solar power and says the Shark is charged purely from solar energy.
Vehicle Features
The BYD eMAX 9 DM-i’s exterior design includes the brand’s Dragon Face aesthetic, LED lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Features designed for family use include hands-free side door opening and tailgate, and a built-in refrigerator. A Tri-Zone Cooling System is standard on both Premium and Advanced variants.
The eMAX 9 DM-i offers a seven-seat cabin in two variants. The Premium variant includes ventilated and massage functions for captain’s chairs and the driver’s seat, while the Advanced model provides manually adjustable captain’s seats. Both variants feature leather interiors, with Beige and Brown for the Premium and Black for the Advanced, complemented by ambient lighting. The Premium model is equipped with a 15.6-inch infotainment system, a 12-speaker sound system, and a sunroof. The Advanced model includes an 8-speaker sound system.
Performance & Range
The BYD eMAX9 DM-i is powered by Super DM-i Technology, which integrates an electric motor with a 1.5-liter turbocharged generator. This system delivers a total output of 271 PS and 315 Nm of torque, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Premium variant, with a 36.6kWh battery, offers up to 170 kilometers of pure-electric range. The Advanced model, with a 20.4 kWh battery, provides 95 kilometers of electric driving. Combined range is stated as up to 1,000 kilometers for the Premium and 945 kilometers for the Advanced.
An Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP)-certified efficiency run, led by former race car driver Louis Ramirez, involved the eMAX 9 DM-i Premium variant traveling across Northern Luzon. The vehicle covered 1,261.2 km on one full tank and one full battery charge.
Charging options include up to 7 kW AC and 73 kW DC fast charging. The Advanced variant (20.4 kWh battery) charges in approximately 3 hours with an AC charger, while the Premium variant (36.6 kWh battery) takes around 5 hours. DC fast charging can achieve a 30% to 80% charge in under 20 minutes.
The eMAX 9 DM-i also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, enabling the vehicle to power external appliances.
Safety Systems
The Premium variant of the BYD eMAX 9 DM-i includes BYD’s DiSus-C suspension, which electronically adjusts dampers for ride stability. It also integrates the DiPilot Advanced Driver Assistance System, which features adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, and lane keeping assist. A 360-degree panoramic camera and rear cross-traffic alert are also included.
Eight airbags are standard for occupant protection.
Availability & Pricing
Available in three colors, the Advanced variant is priced at (), and the Premium model at (). Warranties include 8 years or 160,000 km for the Blade Battery, 8 years or 160,000 km for the drive unit, and 6 years or 150,000 km for the vehicle.
“The pricing seems competitive for the features offered,” noted automotive journalist Ricky Garcia of the Daily Tribune. “It will be interesting to see how it competes with other MPVs in the segment.”
The eMAX 9 DM-i is currently on display at the EV Summit Tech Tour from October until the end of the week.
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