Kazakhstan Is Switching to Hybrids. Why Choose BYD?

Plug-in hybrids are gaining popularity in Kazakhstan. According to the Kazakhstan Automobile Union (KAU), in the first eight months of 2026, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) accounted for more than 72% of new energy vehicle (NEV) sales.

Why are Kazakhstanis choosing hybrids, and what are the differences between their technologies? Tengri Auto took a closer look using BYD as an example.

What Types of Hybrids Are There?

The main difference between hybrids lies in how the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor share the workload. In a parallel hybrid configuration, both the combustion engine and the electric motor can drive the wheels, allowing the ICE to be used where it is most efficient, such as at high speeds.

In a series hybrid configuration, the electric motor drives the wheels, while the ICE primarily acts as a generator. This setup provides smooth traction and quick response.

A series-parallel hybrid configuration combines both principles: the electronics automatically choose when to use electric drive, run the ICE as a generator, or connect it directly to the wheels. This is exactly how BYD's DM (Dual Mode) technology works. It serves as the foundation for BYD hybrid models, where priority is given to electric drive.

Why Focus on BYD?

According to the automaker, BYD is the world's largest manufacturer of NEVs and the sales leader in the segment. The company has produced 18.2 million electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids since 2003. Since January 2025, BYD has been officially represented in Kazakhstan (with Astana Motors as the distributor). From the start of sales to the present day, BYD has led NEV sales rankings in the region, significantly outperforming other brands.

In August 2026, BYD entered the top ten best-selling brands in the republic. This is a significant indicator, considering it is the only brand in the overall top 10 that supplies exclusively NEVs to the market.

The brand's most popular model so far in 2026 is a hybrid—the Song Plus DM-i, with 1,196 units sold. This model accounted for 20% of all NEV sales in Kazakhstan.

Why Is DM Technology Popular?

The core idea of DM-i (i for intelligent) is the prioritization of electric drive and efficient energy management. Typically, the electric motor drives the wheels, while the ICE acts as a generator when needed or transmits torque directly to the wheels, such as on the highway. This configuration allows for reduced fuel consumption while maintaining a long combined driving range. As a result, DM-i has become BYD's most widely used hybrid technology.

With DM-p (p for powerful), power and dynamics take center stage. In all-wheel drive versions, an additional electric motor drives the rear axle, allowing for not only an increase in the powertrain's combined output but also the distribution of torque between the axles.

DMO (O for Off-road) was created for SUVs and pickup trucks. High torque, all-wheel drive, and the ability to quickly distribute torque between the wheels are critical here. In this architecture, electrification becomes less about saving gasoline and more about providing another tool for off-roading.

This summer, the BYD lineup in Kazakhstan was expanded with new hybrid models—the BYD Yuan Up DM-i, BYD Seal 6 DM-i, and BYD Atto 8 with the DM-p hybrid system. Additionally, by the end of autumn, the BYD distributor plans to launch sales of the first model from the Denza brand, the B8, featuring the DM-O hybrid system.

Where to Buy?

A hybrid is technically more complex than a conventional car: it involves the ICE, a high-voltage battery, electric motors, and electronics all working together. Therefore, a warranty, spare parts, and specialists who know how to work with these systems are essential. Buying from an authorized dealer also provides a transparent vehicle history and legal guarantees for the transaction.

Why Are Hybrids Gaining Popularity?

The advantage of a hybrid is that you can drive on electricity in the city while remaining independent of charging stations on long-distance routes. The combined operation of the electric motor and the ICE reduces fuel consumption while maintaining the quick response and smoothness of an electric vehicle. For a country as vast as Kazakhstan, this versatility is a compelling argument.

Tengrinews