BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), launches the SEAL U DM-i. This is BYD’s first Plug-in Hybrid vehicle (PHEV) with BYD’s Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology in Europe. SEAL U DM-i provides an efficient, practical, accessible, and eco-conscious solution for daily mobility needs and long worry-free journeys. The D-segment Family SUV will be available as from this summer for European customers that embrace an environmentally friendly vehicle without compromising on range, practicality, and affordability.

SEAL U DM-i in Design-trim features two high-power electric motors (150 kW front and 120 kW rear) and an efficient 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery, complemented by the in house developed 1.5L four-cylinder turbo powered petrol engine producing 96 kW to work in conjunction with the two electric motors. The Comfort trim-version has a larger 26.6 kWh BYD Blade Battery offering an uncompromising pure electric range of 125 kilometres. More details of this version will be revealed later.

BYD SEAL U DM-i has 2 driving modes for all trim levels: EV and HEV. In the first mode the driver can select ‘EV only mode’ for smooth daily commuting, or city driving. In the second mode the vehicle will mostly use the power that is delivered by the battery. Only whilst accelerating, the petrol engine boosts extra power to the wheels supporting the battery. SEAL U DM-i smoothly shifts through the different modes so it feels like that of pure electric vehicle experience thanks to its unique technologies. Additionally, drivers will not worry about the cruising range or where to charge. Also, the engine charges the battery (between 25 to 70 % which is adjustable) so electric driving is always available. The battery is also charged by regeneration technology.

BYD SEAL U DM-i combines power and efficiency for every journey. With a system total power of up to 238 kW, expect a dynamic driving experience with high power performance; fast acceleration and agile responsiveness. In terms of acceleration time BYD SEAL U DM-i sets the pace. With a staggering 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 5.9 seconds the SEAL U DM-i Design is much faster than similar fuel vehicles.

The BYD DM-i super hybrid electricity-based structure prioritizes on ultra-low fuel consumption and a quiet and smooth driving experience and excellent power output. The vehicle can achieve an attractive fuel consumption of just 0.9 L/100 km for Boost and 1.2 L/100 km for Design WLTP (weighted combined). The electric combined consumption for Boost is 21 kWh/km and for Design 23.5 kWh/km. The electric consumption during city driving for Boost is 14.5 kWh/100 km and for Design 16.1 kWh/100 km.

BYD SEAL U DM-i combines power and efficiency for every journey. With a system total power of up to 238 kW, expect a dynamic driving experience with high power performance; fast acceleration and agile responsiveness. In terms of acceleration time BYD SEAL U DM-i sets the pace. With a staggering 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 5.9 seconds the SEAL U DM-i Design is much faster than similar fuel vehicles.

BYD Blade Battery technology

Like all BYD passenger cars offered in Europe, the BYD SEAL U DM-i is equipped as standard with BYD’s unique, cobalt-free Blade Battery technology, developed in-house with the primary goal of optimizing safety, durability, longevity, performance, and space utilization. The battery pack consists of many thin elongated cells that actually look like blades. In addition, it uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) as a cathode material to increase safety, durability, and thermal stability. The exceptional safety level of the Blade Battery itself is demonstrated (video) by exceeding the requirements of the so-called Nail Penetration Test. This is the most rigorous way to test battery thermal runaway and simulates the consequences of a serious road accident. All BYD SEAL U DM-i trim versions offer 11 kW 3-phase AC charging and 18 kW DC charging 11kW AC capabilities. With this the DC charging time (30-80 percent) takes only 35 minutes.

Ocean Aesthetics Design

BYD SEAL U DM-i is - like its full-electric family member - characterized by its attractive X-shaped front end with a rounded and curved design. The U-shaped headlights fit seamlessly into the hood, creating a striking and distinctive identity exclusive to the Ocean Series, while the dual lenses further enhance its visually high-tech appearance. The balanced proportions continue to the side, where the powerful upper beltline extends from the headlights to the taillights. The side view is embellished by the 19-inch alloy wheels with meticulously polished black wheel spokes and glossy finish. The wide-body design of the rear end complements the roundness of the front face, resulting in a harmonious and well-proportioned aesthetic. The rear bumper is accentuated by black and silver details, while the design of the through-type LED taillight draws inspiration from water drop elements, referencing the brand’s ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ design language.

Advanced safety technology

To keep an eye on the traffic, warn the driver or even intervene to (help) prevent a road accident, BYD SEAL U DM-i is equipped as standard with an extensive range of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) which use five radars and one centralized camera. Such as Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Control, Blind Spot Detection System, and many more. The Design-version also features Head Up Display. During night driving, you can rely on full-LED lighting technology to aid visibility, including high beam assist and adaptive headlights as standard. To help the driver manoeuvre safely, a panoramic camera provides 360-degree visibility on the centre screen, even from above and round the car with the help of an animated car. By cleverly combining the images from multiple wide-angle cameras, it seems as if you are watching from a short distance how you’re manoeuvring the car yourself.

BYD SEAL U DM-i available from this summer

Delivery of the new BYD SEAL U DM-i Boost and Design trim levels will start in June. The Comfort is to be expected after the summer of 2024. SEAL U DM-i will be available in five colours: Delan Black, Time Grey, Snow White, Tian Qing (Blue) and Boundless Cloud. Pricing of the vehicle will be announced in the run-up to the market launch. The BYD SEAL U DM-i will be offered with a 6 year/150,000 km full manufacturer’s warranty, 8 year/200,000 km warranty on at least 70% of the battery’s original capacity, as well as 8 year/150,000 km warranty on the electric motor as standard.