BYD's building a hot hatch? BYD Ocean M hot hatch concept previews a new hatchback electric car coming to take on MG4 - report

Another small electric car could be on the way from BYD if the Ocean M concept on show at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show is anything to go by.

The apparent hot hatch is a concept that, according to reports, will spawn a production version of the electric ‘hatchback’ to fill the space between the Dolphin and Seal in BYD’s line-up.

According to AutoHome, which published images of the Ocean M on the show floor in Beijing, a production version will be priced between 150,000 and 200,000 yuan (AU$31,700 and $42,300).

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It’s coming in the third quarter of 2024, according to officials on the ground, though it’s not clear if it will launch in any markets outside of China.

Not much has been said in terms of specifications, aside from the hatchback is likely to be rear-wheel drive and ride on a new electric platform from BYD. 

If it comes to Australia one of the closest competitors to the hatchback would certainly be the MG4 X-Power, with its all-wheel drive set-up and dual electric motors pumping out 320kW and 600Nm. In Australia that car starts from $63,973 drive-away.

Another small electric car could be on the way from BYD. (Image: AutoHome)

It’s also possible the car will take on a different name, given ‘Ocean’ is the name of a series of cars in BYD’s range and specific models wear marine animal names such Dolphin and Seal.

Chances are it’ll be a sea animal name, rather than a naval name like BYD’s plug-in hybrids (Frigate, Destroyer, etc).

In terms of design, the BYD Ocean M doesn’t shy away from… anything. The concept’s bright orange paint is contrasted with a fairly lairy silver body kit comprised of upward-curved lip, side sills and a rear diffuser, plus the black roof leads back to a black and orange double roof-mounted spoiler.