Dayun M1

Model Overview

The Dayun Yuanzhi M1 is an all-electric mid-size MPV from Dayun Auto. Officially launched in 2021, it represents one of the brand’s core models spearheading its transition into the new energy passenger vehicle market. Continuing to evolve since its debut, the core 2026 lineup on sale comprises various model years including the 2024, 2025, and Flagship variants. The entire range is powered by a front-mounted single electric motor paired with a ternary lithium battery pack, offering four seating layouts (4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-seater) alongside three CLTC/NEDC range options of 450 km, 490 km, and 550 km.

Positioned as a "mobile lounge", the Yuanzhi M1 aims to be an all-round electric MPV tailored for both corporate transport and multi-generational family use. In Dayun’s product hierarchy, it sits above the Yuehu micro-SUV launched during the same era and the brand’s light commercial vehicle range, serving as the flagship of Dayun’s passenger car lineup. Pricing covers a wide spectrum, with standard variants priced between RM178,800 and RM229,800, while the First Class and top-spec Flagship variants stretch up to RM318,800. Key rivals include compact electric MPVs such as the Dongfeng Forthing Lingzhi M5 EV and Livan 8.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the Yuanzhi M1 adopts the clean, tech-forward aesthetic typical of new energy vehicles, giving it a composed and contemporary road presence. Up front, it features a semi-closed fascia with the charging port concealed beneath the badge emblem, while a gloss black garnish connects the left and right headlamp clusters to create a full-width visual effect. LED daytime running lights are set into the front bumper alongside a trapezoidal blackened lower intake, lending a sharper, more dynamic look to the front profile. The rear styling remains relatively clean, with split tail lamps linked by a horizontal chrome strip, complemented by a roof-mounted spoiler and a high-mounted third brake light.

Along the sides, straight and clean character lines define the profile. The tall roofline and upright tailgate ensure generous third-row headroom as well as ample boot capacity. A floating roof effect, accentuated by a crisp shoulder line, helps offset the visual bulk of its sizeable MPV proportions. In terms of exterior paint options, available shades include Pearl White, Aurora Silver, Starry Blue, and Ruby Red.

Dimension-wise, the mainstream 2024 and 2025 variants measure 4,885 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, and 1,785 mm tall, with a 2,902 mm wheelbase; earlier iterations prior to the 2022 model measured 4,850 mm × 1,860 mm × 1,780 mm with a 2,880 mm wheelbase. Across all variants, shoulder room and headroom rank among the most generous in the mid-size electric MPV segment. An approach angle of 18°, a departure angle of 25°, and a laden ground clearance of 160 mm ensure hassle-free clearance when entering basement car parks or tackling uneven road surfaces. Inside, the cabin features a wrap-around layout equipped with a flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster, and a 15.6-inch floating central infotainment touchscreen. The centre console retains a dedicated row of physical air-con buttons alongside a rotary gear selector, striking a practical balance between modern tech and tactile ergonomics. The seats are upholstered in synthetic leather, with interior colourways available in two-tone black/brown and beige.

Powertrain and Performance

The Yuanzhi M1 range utilizes a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous single electric motor with a rear-wheel-drive setup across all variants. The core powertrain specifications are summarized in the table below.

Beyond its 90.58 kWh ternary lithium battery pack, the higher-spec 550km variants deliver a peak torque of up to 320 N·m, while lower-spec grades match the 450km variant at 225 N·m. Top speed is rated between 170 and 185 km/h depending on the variant. Average energy consumption is approximately 17 kWh/100 km, with an electricity-equivalent fuel consumption figure of 1.93 L/100 km. On the DC fast charging front, replenishing the battery from 20% to 80% takes around 0.6 hours (36 minutes), while official AC regular charging times have yet to be fully detailed. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (VtoV) and Vehicle-to-Load (VtoL) reverse power supply functions come standard across the range, allowing the vehicle to serve as a mobile power station for emergency backup or outdoor camping gear.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the Yuanzhi M1 features a front-engine, front-wheel-drive platform equipped with MacPherson strut independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension setup, placing its four-wheel independent suspension layout well in line with mainstream electric MPV benchmarks. Kerb weight ranges from 2,010 kg to 2,050 kg depending on the trim level, with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) rated between 2,385 kg and 2,575 kg.

Steering duties are handled by an electric power steering (EPS) system with speed-sensitive variable assist, delivering light and effortless manoeuvrability during low-speed parking while weighting up progressively for high-speed stability. Braking hardware consists of ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear, with an electronic parking brake (EPB) standard across the lineup. In terms of rolling stock, the 490km and 550km variants come factory-fitted with 225/55 R17 and 215/55 R17 tyres, respectively. The chassis tuning is distinctly comfort-oriented, aligning closely with its family and light-commercial brief; the multi-link rear suspension soaks up road imperfections effectively, providing noticeably superior ride suppleness and composure over speed humps and uneven road surfaces compared to torsion-beam competitors in the same price segment. However, due to its hefty kerb weight, body roll remains noticeable during brisk lane changes.

Cabin and Features

The Yuanzhi M1’s smart cockpit is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor, paired with a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch floating central touchscreen for slick UI response and multi-dimensional interaction. The infotainment suite supports 4G connectivity, built-in GPS navigation, intelligent voice control, Internet of Vehicles (IoV), over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and OEM smartphone screen mirroring (availability of mainstream platforms like CarPlay varies by variant). The flagship variant further adds a wireless smartphone charging pad, an 8-speaker audio setup, and multi-colour ambient cabin lighting. In the executive-focused First Class Edition, the rear passenger seats feature dedicated touchscreen control panels and a rear entertainment system, allowing occupants to independently manage media playback and seat adjustments. On the comfort front, power adjustment for the driver’s seat is standard, with higher trims adding power adjustment for the front passenger; second-row seats in the 6- and 7-seater configurations feature power adjustability, while the third row offers 50:50 split-folding functionality. Air conditioning is offered in automatic dual-zone or three-zone climate control configurations. Boot capacity measures between 300 L and 1,100 L in standard guise (approximately 1,000 L to 2,100 L for the 4-seater executive version), expanding up to 1,300 L with seats folded down.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the Yuanzhi M1 is built around a high-strength safety cage structure utilizing high-tensile steel in critical load paths to preserve passenger cell integrity during an impact. Dual front airbags (driver and front passenger) are standard across the board, with higher-spec variants stepping up to front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags to provide 6-airbag coverage. Active safety systems across all variants include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TCS/ASR), Electronic Stability Control (ESP/DSC), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). However, due to cost considerations, entry-level grades miss out on side and curtain airbags, making spec verification essential prior to purchase.

When it comes to advanced driver assistance, higher-spec and Flagship variants of the Yuanzhi M1 feature Level 2 ADAS capability. Core functionalities comprise standard cruise control, full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), along with front and rear parking sensors and a reverse camera. Selected higher-tier variants also incorporate a 360-degree surround-view camera system to aid low-speed manoeuvring of this large MPV. Sensor hardware configurations differ depending on the year and grade, with entry-level trims limited to basic cruise control and a standard reverse camera.

Market Performance and Reception

Since entering the market, the Dayun Yuanzhi M1 has maintained a relatively understated presence within the mid-size electric MPV segment. In the first half of 2025, cumulative six-month sales reached approximately 3,346 units, outpacing segment peers like the Dongfeng Forthing Lingzhi M5 EV (1,736 units over the same period). While its brand visibility remains some distance behind EV heavyweights such as BYD and GAC AION, its wide pricing spread of RM170,000 to RM310,000 and comprehensive seating layouts spanning 4 to 7 seats have allowed it to carve out a viable niche in commercial fleets, corporate transport, and government vehicle fleets. Leveraging Dayun’s manufacturing roots in commercial vehicles and motorcycles, standard variants are backed by a 3-year/120,000-km vehicle warranty, alongside an extensive 8-year/600,000-km warranty covering the electric drive, battery, and power electronics; first-hand private owners also enjoy a lifetime battery warranty without mileage caps, providing reassuring aftersales peace of mind.

In terms of owner feedback, praise is primarily directed at its versatile seating options (covering 4 to 7 seats), dependable real-world range exceeding 490 km, pliant ride quality courtesy of four-wheel independent suspension, and compelling value proposition (with standard variants starting under RM180,000). On the downside, industry observers and user feedback highlight relatively low brand recognition and a dealership service footprint far less comprehensive than tier-one brands. In-car technology also trails the class average for Chinese domestic MPVs at this price point, with entry-to-mid specs still fitted with halogen headlamps and smaller instrument displays. Additionally, certain cabin plastics feel utilitarian, ADAS suite availability is limited to higher grades, and overall NVH insulation is merely adequate, leaving room for improvement in high-speed tyre and road noise suppression.

In summary, the Dayun Yuanzhi M1 is an unconventional electric MPV that banks on cabin versatility as its primary selling point, solid range figures as its core foundation, and a dual commercial/family brief as its targeted positioning. It marked Dayun Auto’s successful transition into passenger car manufacturing while offering a pragmatic, no-nonsense proposition for buyers needing a functional 7-seater electric MPV on a budget. For consumers prioritizing cavernous cabin space, genuine 7-seater practicality, and strong value without needing badge prestige or cutting-edge smart cabin gimmicks, the Yuanzhi M1 represents an under-the-radar option worth considering; however, for those demanding established brand heritage, sophisticated autonomous driving features, and a high-end digital ecosystem, more refined alternatives are readily available in the market.