GIMS 2024: BYD Seal U DM-i PHEV Makes European Debut

BYD, the Chinese automotive giant, unveiled its Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV for the European market. BYD hasn’t revealed all the specifications for the Seal U DM-i but says it is its first model in Europe that uses its Super DM (Dual Mode) technology that prioritises electric propulsion to minimise fuel consumption. 

The Seal U DM-i uses a hybrid powertrain consisting of an electric motor and a petrol engine along with BYD’s Blade Battery and an onboard AC/DC charger. While BYD has yet to reveal the specifications of the European-spec model, the Chinese-spec version gets a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 108 bhp and a 194 bhp electric motor. The Chinese version comes with two battery packs – 18.3 kWh and 26.6 kWh – and has an electric-only range of up to 150 km. BYD claims the battery can be charged from 30-80 per cent in 35 minutes using an 18 kW DC charger and has V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionality as well. 

Like most BYD models, the Seal U DM-i uses the marque’s ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ design language. The PHEV has C-shaped headlamps and big BYD lettering up front. The Seal U DM-i rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and has a full-width LED light bar at the rear. 

Inside, the Seal U DM-i uses BYD’s signature rotatable touchscreen infotainment system measuring 15.6-inch. It also gets vegan leather upholstery, crystal drive selector, wireless charging, an Infinity-tuned audio system, ADAS and more.

BYD’s PHEV measures 4,775 mm, 1,890 mm and 1,670 mm in length, width and height, respectively and has a wheelbase of 2,765 mm. The marque claims the Seal U DM-i should seat five adults comfortably. With the rear seats folded down, the boot space increases from 552 litres to 1,440 litres. 

More details about the European-spec Seal U DM-i should be revealed in the coming months as BYD says it will go on sale in the region starting from April 2024. 

BYD also mentioned that its partnership with UEFA Euro 2024 that is scheduled to take place between June 14 and July 14, 2024. BYD says it will provide green transportation solutions during the football tournament in Germany.