BYD has announced that the new Seal U DM-i, the first hybrid model from the Chinese brand for Europe, will hit the market in early June.
Equipped with Super DM (Dual Mode) technology, the hybrid Seal prioritizes electric power, with minimal dependence on fuel, making the vehicle more environmentally friendly, with higher energy efficiency and lower fuel consumption.
In the Design version, the new SUV from the Chinese brand is equipped with four-wheel drive, using two electric motors, one in the front with 201 hp and one in the rear axle with 161 hp, powered by a 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery.
The electric motors combine with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 129 hp. Thus, the total maximum power of the system is 319 hp and the maximum torque is 550 Nm.
The Boost and Comfort variants are equipped with the front-wheel drive 1.5-liter combustion engine offering 97 hp, which works together with the 194 hp electric motor, powered by an 18.3 kWh battery, for a combined total power of 215 hp and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. The Comfort variant, however, uses a 26.6 kWh battery, providing a 100% electric range of 125 kilometers.
The battery of all versions of the Seal U DM-i can be charged from 30 to 80% in 35 minutes (18kW power) through fast charging with direct current. BYD promises an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 180 km/h.
In addition, the SEAL U DM-i also features the VTOL (Vehicle To Load) functionality as standard, allowing external devices to be conveniently charged or powered by the car’s battery during trips.
With 4.77 meters in length, 1.89 meters in width, 1.67 meters in height, and a wheelbase of 2.76 meters, the Seal U DM-i comfortably transports five people and the trunk has a capacity of 552 liters, which can reach 1440 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Inside, highlights include vegan leather upholstery, adjustable seats with integrated headrests in the front and rear, a crystal gear selector, and a 15.6″ rotating infotainment system screen, along with an Infinity sound system, voice command, Bluetooth wireless charging, as well as a panoramic sunroof with electric operation.
BYD has already announced that the Boost and Design versions of the Seal U DM-i will hit the market in June, without revealing the prices of the new SUV yet, while the Comfort variant is expected to arrive in the national market after the summer.
