Chinese leading EV maker BYD announced UK pricing for the much-anticipated BYD SEAL U DM-i.
The new BYD SEAL U DM-i, a spacious and comfortable five-seater D-segment SUV, is the brand’s first plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) in Europe, and with a premium interior and high level of standard equipment, represents excellent value in its class.
For the first time, UK consumers can experience all the benefits of BYD’s advanced Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology which sets a new standard in intelligent PHEV innovation for exceptional energy efficiency, low fuel consumption and motoring performance.
Practical for longer worry-free journeys, the BYD SEAL U DM-i also produces a quiet, smooth ride that feels more like that of a pure-electric vehicle, with powerful acceleration and performance to match.
Offered in two trims with attractive pricing, the BYD SEAL U DM-i Design (all-wheel drive) on the road (OTR) price is £39,905 with the BYD SEAL U DM-i Boost (front-wheel drive) OTR priced at £33,205 in a choice of 4 exterior paint colours, namely Delan Black, Time Grey, Snow White, and Tian Qing.
Differing from other PHEV technologies, the BYD Super DM drivetrain prioritises electric power with minimal reliance on fuel, making it kinder to the environment, while effortlessly adapting to different driving conditions.
It comprises a highly integrated Electric Hybrid System, a 1.5L Xiaoyun Hybrid Engine (two variants depending on trim choice – Design or Boost) with world-leading thermal efficiency and the ultra-safe, extremely durable cobalt-free (LFP) BYD Blade Battery tailor-made for the hybrid platform. A significant feature of the Electric Hybrid System is its ability to intelligently switch between the two modes (EV and HEV) to prioritise electric propulsion whenever possible providing an efficient and more environmentally friendly vehicle. The engine charges the battery so electric driving is always available, with battery charge further assisted by regenerative technology.
The BYD SEAL U DM-i in Design trim (AWD) 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. When working in conjunction with the two electric motors, the total system maximum power is 238 kW and the total maximum torque 550 Nm.
There is also the BYD SEAL DM-i Boost trim front-wheel drive option, powered by a 1.5L hybrid engine producing 72 kW operating with the 145 kW high-power electric motor, and also utilising the 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery. This produces total system power of 160 kW. The maximum torque power is 300 Nm. The BYD SEAL DM-i Boost offers an electric driving range of 49.7 miles (WLTP combined) and a total range of 671 miles when fully charged/fully fuelled.
The BYD SEAL U DM-i uses Ocean-inspired design aesthetics, and is characterised by sleek, dynamic lines, and balanced proportions, with a distinctive X-shaped front face and U-shaped headlights that fit seamlessly into the body. A pronounced upper beltline extends to the taillights with sleek, defined side skirts accentuating the body shape, giving the BYD SEAL U DM-i an elevated and stylish SUV presence. The 19-inch alloy wheels give the car a sporty vibe. All this, combined with smooth and natural flowing lines, gives the vehicle a sense of power, strength and agility.
The interior is equally enthralling. Inside, the BYD SEAL U DM-i has a premium and refined feel, with a high-quality finish throughout, with ergonomically designed vegan leather upholstered seats, wrap-around multi-colour ambient lighting, crystal ‘water-droplet’ gear shift and a large 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen being just a few examples of many features. The panoramic electric sliding sunroof makes the cabin light, airy and spacious and the car offers generous legroom for occupants. The rear seats can be folded to enhance luggage capacity in the boot.
With an abundance of equipment and intelligent technology, and a high specification as standard, the BYD SEAL U DM-i provides a rich environment of smart connected experiences, and represents exceptional value in its category. The BYD Intelligent Cockpit System is operated via the central touchscreen, offering smart 4G connectivity and a range of infotainment, with OTA updates. Occupants can enjoy a premium 10 speaker audio system. Features such as Head-Up Display and Intelligent Voice Control are standard, plus two front charging points (one of which is wireless) and two rear USB charging points.
Optimised for safety, the BYD SEAL U DM-i also has a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance System, with both active and passive features to make driving easier and safer. Structurally the car is exceptionally designed too. It uses high-strength steel for many parts of the body structure, and incorporates a special design for impressive occupant protection in case of a side and frontal impact.
Vehicle to Load (V2L) is also standard and a handy feature for powering electrical devices while out on journeys or family adventures. Both trim versions offer the convenience of 18 KW DC charging from 30-80% in only 35 minutes.
The BYD SEAL U DM-i will be offered with a 6 year/93,750 miles full manufacturer’s warranty, 8 year/125,000 miles warranty on at least 70% of the battery’s original capacity, as well as 8 year/93,750 miles warranty on the electric motor as standard.
The BYD SEAL U DM-i is available to order from official BYD dealer partners throughout the UK with sales commencing September.
