Interview: Lucas Bellieud, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility on BYD Super Hybrid Tech Day

As BYD continues to expand its presence in the UAE, the brand recently hosted the first-ever Super Hybrid Tech Day in the country — a milestone event that highlights its growing influence in the region’s fast-evolving electrified vehicle segment. The event showcased BYD’s latest advancements in hybrid and electric technology, including the groundbreaking DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform and the innovative Blade Battery.

To understand how these technologies fit into BYD’s broader vision for the UAE and beyond, DriveArabia sat down with Lucas Bellieud, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility, to discuss the brand’s priorities, safety innovations, and how BYD is aligning its strategy with the UAE’s Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2050 goals.

From cutting-edge AI integration to sustainable partnerships and locally adapted hybrid systems, BYD is positioning itself not just as a carmaker but as a key player in the UAE’s clean mobility transition.

1. Super Hybrid Tech Day

This was the first-ever Super Hybrid Tech Day in the UAE – what does hosting this event here signify about BYD’s priorities in this market?

Hosting the first-ever Super Hybrid Tech Day in the UAE underscores BYD’s commitment to this strategic market and reflects our focus on integrating advanced technology with local needs, supporting the UAE’s transition to sustainable mobility. This event also highlights BYD’s intent to lead the NEV segment in the region by showcasing innovations that resonate with customers here, such as hybrid solutions tailored for GCC driving conditions, while simultaneously being a milestone that signals the UAE’s role as a launchpad for BYD innovations in the wider Middle East, aligning perfectly with the country’s ambition to be a global hub for clean mobility.

2. DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform

The new DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform is a highlight – how does it redefine pickup and SUV capabilities for drivers in the UAE who need both rugged performance and daily comfort?

The DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform redefines PHEV pickup and SUV capabilities by combining rugged off-road performance with smooth, fuel-efficient daily driving. Designed for the region’s diverse terrain, it offers unmatched torque, advanced hybrid efficiency, and intelligent adaptability, ensuring drivers can tackle desert dunes and urban commutes with equal confidence. This platform integrates BYD’s proprietary dual-motor system, enabling instant torque distribution and superior control – something that resonates strongly with customers here who demand both adventure and refinement in one vehicle.

3. Blade Battery & Safety

BYD’s Blade Battery is often described as a game-changer. Beyond range and efficiency, how does it improve safety and reliability for UAE customers?

The Blade Battery is a game-changer in EV safety and reliability, where its innovative design has been rigorously tested to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring dependable performance for UAE drivers. Beyond efficiency and range, the Blade Battery prioritises safety, offering customers peace of mind in the most challenging of environments, having passed some of the industry’s toughest tests, including nail penetration and high-temperature endurance, and is designed to minimise fire risk – making it one of the safest batteries in the world. This reliability is crucial in markets with demanding climates like the UAE.

BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 is a dedicated, third-generation platform for pure electric vehicles that enhances safety, efficiency, and intelligence.

4. Intelligent Mobility & AI

BYD is embedding AI and machine learning across its vehicles. Can you share how this intelligence enhances the everyday driving experience for customers in the UAE?

BYD’s advanced connectivity and integrated NEV platform, including our DiLink intelligent connectivity and DiPilot driver assistance systems, ensure a smarter driving experience. These innovations enable real-time performance optimisation and seamless adaptation to local conditions, enhancing convenience and safety for UAE customers. For example, the vehicle can analyse driving patterns, traffic conditions, and terrain to maximise efficiency and comfort, while AI-driven predictive maintenance also reduces surprises for customers, further enhancing peace of mind.

5. Sustainability & UAE Vision 2030

With BYD’s technology aligning with UAE Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2050, how do you see BYD contributing to accelerating the country’s sustainable mobility goals?

BYD is actively contributing to the UAE’s Vision 2030 and Net Zero 2050 goals by delivering cutting-edge NEVs and green mobility solutions. In partnering with Dubai Taxi Corporation to bring more EVs to the road, and expanding charging infrastructure, BYD is supporting the UAE’s shift to sustainable transportation. Additionally, BYD proudly supports the ‘1 Degree Pledge,’ reinforcing its commitment to combating climate change and creating a cooler, more sustainable planet, with our focus on clean energy ecosystems further aligning with the UAE’s vision for a smarter, greener future. Crucially, BYD’s partnership with Al-Futtaim ensures this vision is localised – with investments in service networks, spare parts availability, and customer education – so the transition to electric and hybrid mobility is both seamless and sustainable for UAE residents.