BYD’s magnetic Smart Button lets drivers tweak seats, climate and audio with a press or twist, boosting safety and convenience. Discover it today!
At the unveiling of its flagship electric SUV, the Great Tang (also known as Datang), BYD introduced a fresh piece of hardware that could change how drivers interact with their cars: the Smart Button. This magnetic, wireless button can be mounted anywhere on the dashboard or center console, giving users a tactile way to control more than 20 cabin functions without taking their eyes off the road.
What Is the Smart Button?
The Smart Button is a round, magnetic‑mounted knob that houses an NFC chip. A single press, double‑press, or a twist triggers pre‑programmed actions such as seat adjustments, climate‑control changes, or audio tweaks. Because the button works blind – drivers don’t need to look at a screen – it reduces distraction during complex urban driving.
Key Features
- Magnetic frame: Easy to attach on any metal surface or with a magnetic plate.
- NFC sync: Pairs instantly with the vehicle’s infotainment system.
- Multiple inputs: Single press, double press, and rotational twist.
- Blind operation: No visual feedback required, enhancing safety.
- Customizable: Up to 20 cabin functions can be assigned via the BYD app.
Design Inspiration
BYD’s approach mirrors a strategy first seen in the smartphone world. Xiaomi, for example, equipped its YU7 SUV with independent magnetic buttons to manage IoT commands. BYD appears to be borrowing that flexible accessory concept and adapting it for a premium electric vehicle.
Great Tang – The SUV Behind the Button
The Great Tang is BYD’s newest large‑size electric SUV, already surpassing 100,000 pre‑orders. It rolls out in China with a starting price of ¥239,900 (about $35,500) and showcases the second‑generation Blade battery paired with a 1,000 V high‑voltage architecture.
Performance & Range
- Rear‑wheel‑drive base: 105.79 kWh battery, 300 kW motor, up to 800 km (CLTC) range.
- Top‑spec single‑motor: 130.15 kWh battery, 370 kW motor, 950 km range.
- Top‑spec dual‑motor: 130.15 kWh battery, 585 kW combined output, 850 km range, 0‑100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.
Fast‑Charging Capability
The dedicated fast‑charging system can boost the battery from 10 % to 70 % in just 5 minutes and to 97 % in 9 minutes under optimal temperature conditions.
Dimensions & Suspension
The Great Tang measures 5,263 mm long, 1,999 mm wide, and 1,790 mm tall, with optional exterior extensions up to 5,302 mm length and 1,800 mm height. Its 3,130 mm wheelbase sits on BYD’s proprietary DiSus‑A smart suspension, featuring dual‑chamber air springs that adjust up to 100 mm based on road predictions from built‑in sensors.
Market Positioning
BYD aims to move upmarket with the Great Tang, targeting premium multi‑seat EV buyers while maintaining healthy margins. Priced from ¥239,900, it directly challenges high‑end models such as the Li Auto L9 and the Aito M9.
Why It Matters
The Smart Button exemplifies BYD’s push toward more intuitive, driver‑centred interiors. By offering a tactile, customizable control surface, BYD not only enhances safety but also differentiates its vehicles in a crowded EV market.
For more details on the Great Tang and BYD’s latest innovations, stay tuned to our coverage.