BYD Philippines and the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP) recently conducted an efficiency run for two BYD electric vehicle (EV) models. Members of the motoring media were assigned to a fleet of Dolphin and Atto 3 models and accompanied by APP representatives as observers.
The activity’s objectives were to establish credible and verifiable driving efficiency data from the BYD ATTO 3 and Dolphin under mixed highway and city conditions, and to derive BYD EV operational and ownership savings from the data gathered during the activity. Lastly, the run would provide savings analyses between comparable EV and ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles based on data collected.
The BYD fleet of EVs tested were four Dolphin and four ATTO 3. Each BYD model had specific drive mode settings to maximize the data gathered, such as eco or sport and regenerative value (light or larger). Further, climate control and air-con values were set at 22 degrees Celsius with fan speed number three for all vehicles. Even the tire pressures were at the OE-recommended pressure for the car. This writer was assigned to car number 6 (Atto 3) with drive mode set to eco and larger regenerative braking settings.
As for the AAP observation, the group aimed to provide guidance and verify the methodologies and driving practices employed in the activity. The AAP acted as an observer during the preparation of the vehicles and the actual activities and issued the final report and results of the efficiency run.
Methodology
Data gathered were BYD EVsʼ energy consumption in kWh based on initial and final “state of charge” difference multiplied by battery capacity.
Data derived were:
• BYD EV—cost in pesos per km
• Average monthly EV savings vs ICE in pesos
• 5-year projection EV savings vs ICE in pesos
• Projected total cost of ownership savings for EV versus ICE
Driving parameters:
• Each test vehicle was occupied by three persons: Driver, co-driver, and AAP representative
• All vehicles were provided with a route book, with special instructions listed
• Maximum speeds on the highway were between 60 and 80kph (observing speed limit) per existing AAP fuel economy run guidelines
• Vehicles were driven sensibly, with no hypermiling techniques
Route overview
The 1st leg was 27.5 km in total distance. The fleet flagged off at Shell Station on 32nd Street BGC and traversed Buendia, Paseo de Roxas, and Arnaiz avenues in Makati City. Afterward, the convoy ran through Skyway, SLEX, and up to Unioil station in MCX.
Next was the 2nd leg, totaling 40.6 km. From Unioil station in MCX, the convoy reentered SLEX Northbound up to Skyway, then exited in the Don Bosco ramp and traversed Osmeña Highway, Quirino, Taft avenues up to Carriedo and JP Rizal Avenue, Monumento Caloocan until Shell station in Balintawak.
The 3rd and final leg was 33.8 km in total. From Shell Balintawak, the group took EDSA Southbound up to MOA EDSA extension, then went back to EDSA Northbound and took the Ayala and Buendia avenues en route to Shell station in 32nd Street in BGC.
Results (AAP Certified)
BYD Dolphin savings vs comparable ICE car
BYD Atto 3 savings vs comparable ICE crossover
Highway vs urban drive results
(Story, photos and video by Randy S. Peregrino)