Electric Vehicle Reliability
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BYD to Issue Software Update for 90K Hybrids to Fix Battery Defect
ZACKS· 2025-12-02 16:31
Core Insights - BYD Company Limited will issue a software update for approximately 90,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles in China due to safety risks associated with battery pack production defects [1][6] - The update specifically targets 88,981 Qin Plus DM-i sedans manufactured between January 2021 and September 2023, as identified by the State Administration for Market Regulation [1][6] Regulatory and Market Impact - The decision follows an official investigation into battery-pack flaws, which is critical given the Qin Plus DM-i's significant sales volume, accounting for about 20% of BYD's October sales [2] - Manufacturing inconsistencies in the battery packs could lead to reduced power output or prevent vehicles from operating in full electric mode, impacting BYD's reliability in a competitive EV market [2] Update and Monitoring Process - BYD plans to deliver the software fix via an over-the-air update, monitor vehicles for irregularities, and use dashboard warnings to inform drivers [3] - If any issues are detected, BYD will replace the affected battery packs at no cost to the customers [3][6] Sales Performance - In November, BYD reported delivering 474,921 passenger vehicles, a decrease of 5.7% year-over-year, with battery-electric models increasing by 19.9% and plug-in hybrids decreasing by 22.4% [3]