BYD presented at the Geneva Motor Show the brand’s first plug-in hybrid model in Europe, featuring the Super Dual Mode (DM) technology.
It is the Seal U DM-i, an SUV for the D segment, which uses the brand’s “Ocean Aesthetics” design language, inspired by the movement of the oceans.
The model features a distinctive X-shaped front, a contoured hood, and a front bumper with integrated LED headlights and double lenses that give the vehicle a strong sense of power, safety, and stability.
The dynamic and inclined waistline and the balanced proportions of the body project an elegant and slim silhouette, which is enhanced by the 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
At the rear, the continuous matrix LED taillights, inspired by a “water droplet,” stand out, with a light bar spanning the entire width.
Inside, the highlights include vegan leather upholstery, adjustable seats with integrated headrests in the front and back, a crystal gear selector, and a 15.6″ rotating infotainment system screen, along with Infinity sound system, voice command, and wireless Bluetooth charging.
With a length of 4.77 meters, a width of 1.89 meters, a height of 1.67 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.76 meters, the Seal U DM-i comfortably seats five people and has a trunk capacity of 552 liters, which can be expanded to 1440 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Equipped with BYD’s DM-i hybrid technology, the new SUV from the Chinese brand is powered by a 131 hp combustion engine combined with two electric motors, one at the front with 204 hp and another at the rear axle with 163 hp. The total power output has not been disclosed, but BYD has announced that the electric motors are powered by an 18.3 kWh battery that provides a 70 km range in 100% electric mode and can be charged from 30% to 80% in 35 minutes (with an 18 kW power) through fast DC charging.
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.
The new BYD plug-in hybrid SUV promises a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.
