BYD’s (Build Your Dreams) Seal U DM-i SUV made its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2024. The five-seater SUV will be available in two versions — all-electric and plug-in hybrid, the latter being a first for the company in the European market.
BYD Seal U SUV: Engine Specifications
The BYD Seal U SUV uses the DM-i (Dual Mode) technology that consists of three crucial components, an internal combustion engine ( expected to be a 1.5-litre petrol powertrain), an electric motor and the Blade battery. Efficiency is the hybrid system’s main aim. Hence, it tries to ensure that the SUV mostly runs on electricity and utilises the engine at a minimal level.
BYD hasn’t revealed the details of the 1.5-litre petrol engine but it could be either the conservative 97 bhp trim or the more powerful turbo petrol with an output of 128 bhp. It is expected to be paired with a 194 bhp electric motor with a CVT gearbox. Regarding the battery, there are two options — 18.3 kWh and 26.6 kWh. The former has an electric range of around 110 km and the latter is 150 km, which is currently only available in the Chinese market. The 18.3 kWh battery can be charged from 30 to 80 per cent in 35 minutes.Â
The all-electric version, on the other hand, is available in two trims — 71.8kWh and 87kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery packs. Based on WLTP, the 87kWh battery offers a range of up to 500 km and with 140kW DC rapid charging, it enables charging from 30 to 80 per cent in 28 minutes. According to China light-duty vehicle test cycle (CLTC), the 71.8kWh battery has a driving range of up to 520km and the 87 kWh battery around 605km.Â
BYD Seal U SUV: Specs and Features
The Seal U is a full-sized SUV as its dimensions are measures 4,775mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,670mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm. As a five-seater SUV, it has a boot space of 552 litres, which can further be increased to 1,440 litres thanks to the split 60:40 seats.
Based on BYD’s ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ design language, the Seal U SUV has an X-shaped front fascia and front bumper with integrated LED headlights. The SUV sports 19-inch alloy wheels and at the rear gets connected LED lights.
The cabin comes with vegan upholstery, a crystal gear stick, a 15.6-inch rotatable infotainment touchscreen with OTA updates, an Infinity sound system, voice command and Bluetooth wireless charging.
BYD’s presence in India
BYD India is all set to launch the Seal sedan in India on March 5 and the company recently opened the bookings. Apart from that, the Chinese automobile manufacturer sells the Atto 3 SUV and E6 MPV.
