Introduction

The BYD Han is a fully electric mid-size luxury sedan from Chinese automaker BYD. It may not be available in North America, but this car is packed with so many unique features and quirks that it’s hard to ignore. Competing with luxury sedans like the Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Lexus ES, the BYD Han represents China’s answer to the growing demand for electric luxury vehicles.
Today, I’ll take you through the fascinating design, quirks, and features of the BYD Han and explore why this car is turning heads, even if it isn’t sold in the U.S.

A Global Success

The BYD Han is sold globally, primarily in China but also in Europe, Asia, and parts of Latin and South America. With nearly 200,000 units sold globally last year, the Han has proven to be a popular choice among electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts. However, it’s not currently available in North America, and according to BYD, there are no plans to introduce it here. Still, it’s worth examining what the rest of the world is experiencing with this quirky luxury sedan.
One of the first things people ask about any EV is its power and speed. The BYD Han is available in several performance configurations, ranging from a modest 220 horsepower, front-wheel-drive version to a powerful 520 horsepower, all-wheel-drive model. What’s fascinating is how BYD labels these performance levels. Instead of using traditional names or numbers, BYD prints the 0-60 time directly on the back of the car. So, a BYD Han 3.9s means the car can go from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. It’s a unique approach, ditching the typical badges or names in favor of the performance time being displayed boldly.

Exterior: Quirky and Full of Surprises

The BYD Han’s exterior styling is best described as restrained or even generic at first glance. It doesn’t immediately stand out like some of its competitors, but there are hidden details that make this sedan special. For example, BYD didn’t just put their brand logo on the back of the car—they went with a full “Build Your Dreams” slogan, spelled out in large letters on the trunk. It’s a bold, optimistic statement that might remind you of a bumper sticker but is actually the company’s name.
On the practical side, the BYD Han also features modern touches like flush pop-out door handles, which enhance the aerodynamics and give it a sleeker look. And if you’re wondering about its performance under braking, it comes equipped with Brembo brakes, a well-respected name in high-performance braking systems.

Interior: Luxury Meets Tech

Stepping inside the BYD Han is where the real magic happens. The interior is surprisingly luxurious, with premium materials like stitched leather, soft-touch surfaces, and a design that feels competitive with the likes of Audi and Mercedes. It’s clear that BYD has taken the time to ensure the Han doesn’t feel like a budget EV. In fact, you might be surprised by just how upscale it is, especially considering the often negative associations with Chinese cars.
One of the standout features of the interior is the large center infotainment screen. Unlike most cars where you have to choose between portrait or landscape orientation, the Han’s screen rotates, letting you select whichever layout you prefer. With the push of a button on the steering wheel or screen, you can shift between vertical and horizontal displays. It’s a clever solution to a common debate among tech enthusiasts and car owners.
The infotainment system itself is full of unique features, but perhaps the most unusual is the built-in karaoke app. Yes, you read that right—the BYD Han comes with a karaoke microphone stored in the center console. Passengers can sing along to their favorite songs while the car’s audio system provides the soundtrack. It’s not just a car; it’s an entertainment hub.

Tech Quirks: Cameras, Karaoke, and More

The quirks don’t stop at karaoke. The BYD Han also has a camera feature that allows you to take pictures or record video while driving. It’s like having a built-in dash cam, but with added functionality. There’s even a switch to flip the camera to face inside the car, so you can record yourself while driving or, more likely, while belting out your karaoke favorites.
And if privacy is a concern, there’s a small sliding door to cover the interior-facing camera. It’s a thoughtful touch that shows BYD understands the balance between offering cutting-edge technology and ensuring customer comfort.
Another fun feature is the ability to adjust the ambient lighting to pulse in sync with your music. At night, the interior lighting will dance to the beat, creating a lively atmosphere inside the car. It’s just one of many ways BYD has infused fun into what might otherwise be a standard luxury sedan.

Driving Experience: Comfort Over Performance

When it comes to driving the BYD Han, the experience is more about comfort than sportiness. In sport mode, the Han’s acceleration is quick and punchy, reaching 0-60 in under 4 seconds in the top-spec model. But in regular driving modes, it feels smooth and composed, ideal for daily commuting or long trips.
The suspension is compliant, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads. However, handling is where the BYD Han shows its limitations. The steering lacks the precision you’d find in a BMW or Mercedes, and there’s noticeable wheel spin during hard acceleration. The focus seems to be more on luxury and technology than driving dynamics, which may suit its intended market in China, where many owners are chauffeured rather than driving themselves.

Backseat Comfort and Tech

The BYD Han’s backseat is designed with luxury in mind. Power-adjustable seats are standard in the rear, a feature you won’t often find in sedans of this size. There’s also a control for the front passenger seat, allowing rear passengers to move it forward for more legroom—a common feature in chauffeur-driven cars.
In the rear center armrest, a fold-down screen provides controls for climate settings, media, and even ambient lighting. It’s a smart way to give rear passengers control over their environment, reinforcing the idea that the Han is a car built for comfort and convenience.

Conclusion: A Fascinating Luxury EV

The BYD Han is a fascinating example of how far Chinese automakers have come. From its quirky features like the rotating infotainment screen and karaoke microphone to its genuinely luxurious interior, this car proves that BYD is capable of producing a world-class electric sedan. While it may not be as fun to drive as some of its European rivals, the BYD Han shines in terms of comfort, technology, and unique features.
I recently came across someone who shared a similar experience driving a BYD Han, and I was truly inspired by their take on the car. If you’re curious to see more, I highly recommend checking out this video: The BYD Han Is China’s Ultra-Quirky Take On a Luxury Sedan.