BYD Seal U Unveiled: New Electric SUV Targets Tesla Model Y, Australian Launch Possible
BYD unveils the Seal U, an all-electric SUV based on its e-platform 3.0. With multiple powertrain options, ranges up to 700km, and competitive pricing in China, it could potentially come to Australia as a rival to the Tesla Model Y and other mid-size electric SUVs.
The BYD Seal U is an all-electric SUV that could potentially come to Australia. It's positioned as a rival to the Tesla Model Y and other mid-size electric SUVs. The Seal U is based on BYD's e-platform 3.0, which is also used for the Seal sedan.
It's available in China with three powertrain options:
- Two rear-wheel drive variants with 150kW and 160kW
- An all-wheel drive variant with 390kW
The battery options include 71.8kWh and 87kWh packs. Claimed range (CLTC) varies from 500km to 700km depending on the variant.
Powertrain:
- Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with "Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology"
- Combined range: Up to 1080 km
- Battery capacity: 18.3 kWh
- Fuel consumption: 6.4 L/100km
- 0-100 km/h acceleration: 5.9 seconds (AWD version)
Performance:
- Electric-only range: Claimed 50 miles (80 km)
- Fuel economy: 313.8 mpg (WLTP cycle)
Dimensions:
Boot space: 425 liters (expandable to 1,440 liters with rear seats folded)
Key Features:
- Rotatable large touchscreen infotainment system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated and heated front seats with electric adjustment and memory function
- Head-up display
- 360-degree camera system
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
- NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) technology for a quiet cabin
- High-quality audio system with ambient lighting that syncs with music
The Seal U features BYD's cell-to-body technology, integrating the battery pack into the car's structure.It includes advanced driver assistance systems and a large 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen.
Safety:
Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating
- Adult occupant protection: 90%
- Child occupant protection: 86%
Design:
"Ocean-inspired" design philosophy
- 19-inch aerodynamic wheels
- Double U-shaped headlights
- Continuous taillight with water drop matrix pattern
Pricing
In China, it's priced from 220,000 yuan (about AU$47,000) to 280,000 yuan (about AU$60,000).
The BYD Seal U aims to compete with popular SUVs like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage, offering a blend of efficiency, technology, and practicality in the family SUV segment.
While not confirmed for Australia yet, BYD's local distributor EV Direct has expressed interest in bringing it to the market.If it comes to Australia, it would likely be positioned between the Atto 3 and the upcoming Seal sedan in BYD's lineup.
