BYD updates the Seal lineup in China

BYD is updating its Seal lineup in China with a new 800V platform, and a LiDAR sensor to improve driver assistance systems and battery options. it will also introduce a plug-in hybrid variant. The BYD Seal will be the first vehicle to use the new e-Platform 3.0 Evo architecture.

BYD is launching both the new model year of the all-electric Seal in China, as well as the new Seal 07 DM-i hybrid variant. The 2025 Seal is the second model based on the e-Platform 3.0 Evo after the Sea Lion 07 and starts at prices from 175,800 yuan (just under 22,500 euros) and tops out at 239,800 yuan (33,400 USD) for the range-topping AWD variant. In addition to the new model introductions, BYD is now introducing LiDAR capacities to improve driver assistance software.

The newly updated Seal sedan is now on an 800-volt platform and includes a LiDAR sensor mounted on the roof. The vehicle now can reach a maximum speed of 240 kph and the top variant can accelerate from 0-100 kph in 3.8 seconds. The 800V platform also allows a 10%-80% charge in just 25 minutes, according to carnewschina. The new Seal is available in two ‘blade’ battery options, 61.44 kWh and 80.64 kWh, which enable a CLTC range of 510 km to 650 km. The base model runs on a 170 kW rear motor, while more powerful versions include a 230 kW option. The top trim variant offers 390 kW with all-wheel drive. The vehicle’s dimensions will remain unchanged.

The PHEV Seal 07 DM-i is available in two options: Customers can alternatively select a 1.5-litre engine producing 74 kW paired with a 160 kW electric motor for lighter versions and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine delivering 115 kW alongside a 200 kW electric motor. The electric ranges for these respectively stand at 70 km and 125 km under the CLTC cycle. It can charge wirelessly with up to 50W, a slew of comfort features and Level 2 driving assistance.

At the event, BYD’s General Manager of the Ocean series Zhang Zhuo also explained that the company would focus on four key models now, focusing on the Seagull, Dolphin, Seal, and Sealion. The seal will be the dedicated sedan lineup. BYD has also recently started ramping up international production, opening a new automobile factory in Thailand last month, as well as announcing plans for a plant in Indonesia earlier this year. At the end of last year, the Seal was also introduced in Mexico.

cnevpost.com, carnewschina.com, carnewschina.com (Seal 07 DM-i)