BYD recently showcased its globally acclaimed DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligent) technology in India. The carmaker has confirmed that the BYD Seal U will be the first model in the country to feature this technology, which is slated to launch by the end of this year. With expected price of around Rs 45 lakh – Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom), the new BYD plug-in hybrid SUV will rival the upcoming Jetour T2 PHEV SUV that’s due for this Diwali season.
The BYD Seal U features a 1.5L direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine paired with two electric motor (one working as the traction motor and the other functioning as a starter generator). The setup is further assisted by an 18.3kWh battery pack. The carmaker claims that its DM-i plug-in hybrid technology delivers “an industry-leading thermal efficiency of 43.04% and over 1,200km of driving range.
In EV mode, the SUV offers 100% electric drive suited for urban and daily commuting purposes. In HEV “Series” mode, the petrol engine functions as a generator, charging the battery while the electric motor powers the wheels. In HEV “Parallel” mode, the petrol engine directly provides propulsion to the wheels, supporting the electric motor, during higher power demands.
Globally, the BYD Seal U is available with both FWD and AWD drivetrain options. It accelerates from 0 to 100kmph in 5.9 seconds. Dimensionally, the plug-in hybrid SUV measures 4,775mm in length, 1,890mm in width and 1,670mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,765mm. It comes with a boot capacity of 425-litres, which can be expanded up to 1,440-lites with rear seats folded.
Some of its key features include:
- 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system
- Digital instrument cluster
- 4G connectivity
- OTA (over-the-air) software updates
- Wireless phone charging
- Premium audio system
- Ventilated and heated front seats
- Floating centre console
- Ambient lighting with music synchronization
- Advanced NVH insulation
- Rear AC vents
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Multiple airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- 360-degree camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Hill hold and descent control
- Traction control system
