The Fangchengbao Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T 31.8 kWh is a plug-in hybrid SUV introduced in November 2023 by the Chinese automaker Fangchengbao, a brand under the broader BAIC Group. This variant represents a high-performance offering within the Leopard 5 lineup, emphasizing both electric range and substantial combined power output. Positioned as a premium trim, it caters to buyers seeking a technologically advanced and powerful SUV with all-wheel drive capability. The “DMO” designation signifies a specific configuration combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a 31.8 kWh battery pack, resulting in a total system output of 687 horsepower. It is built on a dedicated SUV platform designed to accommodate both internal combustion and electric powertrains.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Fangchengbao |
| Model | Leopard 5 |
| Type | DMO 1.5T 31.8 kWh (687 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD E-CVT |
| Start of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined WLTC) | 1.79-8.85 l/100 km (131.4 – 26.6 US mpg, 157.8 – 31.9 UK mpg, 55.9 – 11.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 237.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 31.8 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 100-125 km (62.14 – 77.67 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 23.5-24 kWh/100 km (37.82 – 38.62 kWh/100 mi, 89 – 87 MPGe, 4.3 – 4.2 km/kWh, 2.6 – 2.6 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 388 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (Rear) | TZ200XYA |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Rear) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (Front) | TZ220XYAB |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Longitudinal |
| Electric motor type (Front) | Synchronous |
| System power | 687 Hp |
| System torque | 760 Nm (560.55 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 194 Hp |
| Power per litre | 129.6 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 273 Nm (201.35 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD476ZQF |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 2890-2998 kg (6371.36 – 6609.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3265-3373 kg (7198.09 – 7436.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Length | 4890 mm (192.52 in.) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Height | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Rear track | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 220-310 mm (8.66 – 12.2 in.) |
| Approach angle | 35-39° |
| Departure angle | 32-35° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 700-790 mm (27.56 – 31.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4). PHEV. ICE drives front, electric motors drive both axles. |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is a 1.5-liter, turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine (BYD476ZQF) producing 194 horsepower and 273 Nm (201.35 lb.-ft.) of torque. This engine employs direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain for optimized combustion efficiency. Supplementing the internal combustion engine are two synchronous electric motors. A 388 Hp motor drives the rear axle, while a 272 Hp motor powers the front axle. The combined system output reaches a substantial 687 horsepower and 760 Nm (560.55 lb.-ft.) of torque. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery, optimizing efficiency and responsiveness. The 31.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack is positioned under the vehicle floor, providing an all-electric range of 100-125 km (62.14 – 77.67 mi).
Driving Characteristics
The Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to lower-trim versions. The substantial combined horsepower and torque result in brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.6 seconds. The E-CVT transmission provides smooth, seamless acceleration, although it may lack the direct feel of a traditional multi-gear automatic. In electric mode, the vehicle offers near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for urban driving. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions. The weight of the battery pack does impact handling somewhat, but the double wishbone suspension on both axles helps to mitigate body roll and maintain a relatively composed ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As a premium trim, the Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T typically includes a comprehensive suite of standard features. These often include leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and premium audio system. Optional extras may include upgraded interior trim materials, ventilated and massaging front seats, and a more sophisticated ADAS package. Specific feature availability can vary depending on regional specifications.
Chassis & Braking
The Leopard 5 features a robust chassis designed to handle the increased power and weight of the DMO variant. Both front and rear suspension utilize a double wishbone configuration, providing a balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Ventilated disc brakes are employed on all four wheels, ensuring adequate stopping power. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking maneuvers. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Fangchengbao Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T has been positioned as a competitor to other high-performance plug-in hybrid SUVs in the Chinese market. Reviews have generally praised its powerful powertrain, long electric range, and luxurious interior. However, some critics have noted the relatively high price point and the potential for increased complexity due to the hybrid system. Compared to lower-trim Leopard 5 models with smaller engines, the DMO variant offers significantly improved performance and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher cost. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, with combined WLTC figures ranging from 1.79-8.85 l/100 km.
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the Leopard 5 DMO 1.5T powertrain remains to be fully established. However, the use of proven technologies such as the LiFePO4 battery chemistry and the robust BYD-sourced engine suggests a reasonable expectation of durability. The vehicle’s status in the used car market will depend on factors such as maintenance history, mileage, and overall condition. The combination of performance, electric range, and luxury features positions the DMO variant as a potentially desirable option for buyers seeking a high-tech and capable plug-in hybrid SUV.
