BYD is preparing to shake up the European D-segment. The world's leading NEV manufacturer opens the next chapter for further growth in Europe with the announcement of two promising newcomers from the so-called Ocean Series. In addition to the BYD DOLPHIN, the brand is also introducing the new BYD SEAL which will be available to European customers around the fourth quarter of 2023. Find out why the SEAL will be top of the list for both private and business drivers.
The BYD SEAL is a mid-sized four-door saloon in the D-segment that cannot be easily pigeonholed. It’s spacious, practical and luxurious, but also athletic, sporty and powerful. Meanwhile, it’s a high-tech EV full of innovation and advanced drive technology that clearly distinguishes BYD from the established order.
BYD’s 8-in-1 electric drivetrain
The progressive nature of BYD and the SEAL is largely due to the unique technology which BYD has developed in-house. Let's start with the drivetrain. The SEAL uses BYD's intelligent e-Platform 3.0, as well as the innovative 8-in-1 electric drivetrain that integrates all essential components for propulsion, charging, control and management. This ensures impressive efficiency, optimal performance and a better driving experience.
The BYD SEAL will be offered with a choice of two versions. One has rear-wheel drive (RWD) and an electric motor that directs a power of 230 kW (313 hp) to the asphalt. The other has all-wheel drive (AWD) and an additional electric motor that controls the front wheels. The combined output of the two engines is no less than 390 kW (530 hp), which ensures impressive performance figures. How about an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds?
Both engine variants are equipped with the unique, advanced and safe Blade Battery with a capacity of 82 kWh. This gives the RWD version a range of up to 570 kilometres and AWD variant 520 kilometres (WLTP combined).
BYD's unique Blade Battery
The BYD SEAL's advanced Blade Battery is cobalt-free and uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) which gives the battery a considerably higher level of safety than conventional lithium-ion batteries which are widely used in EVs. The Blade Battery also ensures high power density and ultra-low energy consumption. But that's not all: the BYD SEAL is the first car to use so-called Cell-to-Body technology (CTB), which means the battery is integrated into the structure of the car. The extremely strong aluminum honeycomb panel structure plays a key role here, resulting in a unique and leading level of safety in the EV industry.
The 82 kWh battery can be charged at a regular charging point (AC) with 11 kW, while it just takes 26 minutes to charge up from 30 to 80% at an ultra-fast charging station (DC).
Handling and stability
The BYD SEAL is athletic, sporty and with an output of 230 kW (313 hp) or 390 kW (530 hp) undeniably fast and powerful. To keep all horsepower in check and to ensure optimum stability, the SEAL is equipped with Intelligent Torque Control Technology (iTAC). This system recognizes the conditions sooner and the driver's input is processed more quickly. Adjustments in the distribution of the driving force can thus be implemented more quickly. This further pushes the limits of road handling and improves the driver's ability to exploit the full performance potential.
In addition, the AWD version of the BYD SEAL is equipped with a semi-active suspension with variable dampers. On smooth road surfaces, the damping is relatively stiff for maximum dynamics and stability. On rough road surfaces, the dampers automatically adjust to deal with bumps as smoothly as possible.
For every version of the BYD SEAL, the driver can customize the driving character and degree of traction with four different driving modes – ECO, Normal, Sport and Snow.
Striking interior with high-tech features
In the beautiful designed and high-quality interior with striking details, a leading role is reserved for the advanced infotainment system. This system provides access to a variety of online features and enables over-the-air updates. The rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen with intelligent voice control is unique, while seamless smartphone integration is possible thanks to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Above the steering wheel is a 10.25-inch LCD screen for all important functions and the Dynaudio Performance Audio System with twelve speakers provides an impressive sound experience.
The sporty design and electrically adjustable front seats have a smart combination of soft and sturdy materials and offer a comfortable seating position and excellent support. Depending on the version, the BYD SEAL offers front seats with ventilation and heating functions.
Spacious saloon for the whole family
The BYD SEAL is the ideal companion for private and business customers who value high technology and excellent performance and who also use the car as a family car. The large wheelbase (2.92 meters) in the 4.80 meter long BYD SEAL provides just as much legroom as in a larger executive saloon. The Cell-to-Body architecture contributes to the generous headroom.
The interior offers enough space and comfort for five occupants and there are plenty of storage options in the interior, including twenty flexible storage compartments. The luggage compartment volume is 402 litres. The RWD version has an additional frunk under the bonnet with 53 litres storage space. As standard, the BYD SEAL offers a wealth of safety and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to help the driver avoid collisions, simplify parking, optimize vehicle stability in all conditions and improve night-time performance using advanced lighting technology.
The BYD SEAL will be available in four standard exterior colours and two optional exterior colours. There is also a choice of two interior colours. More information about the specifications and final prices will be announced ahead of the European market launch of the SEAL.
