BYD, the Chinese car manufacturer, has recently introduced its latest offering in the Indian market – the Seal electric sedan. This marks BYD’s third model in India, following the e6 MPV and Atto 3 SUV. The Seal is positioned as a premium electric sedan, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles in the country.
Pricing and Booking Details
Priced between Rs 41 lakh and Rs 53 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the Seal offers two variants: the entry-level Dynamic variant and the top-spec Performance AWD variant. BYD has already started accepting bookings for the Seal, requiring a token amount of Rs 1.25 lakh. Customers who book before March 31, 2024, are entitled to additional services including free home charger installation, a portable charging box, and six years of roadside assistance.
| BYD Seal Performance AWD , Range 580km | Rs 53 lakh |
| BYD Seal Premium RWD, Range 650km | Rs 45.55 lakh |
| BYD Seal Dynamic RWD, Range 510km | Rs 41.00 lakh |
Powertrain, Range, and Battery
The Seal is equipped with two battery options – 61.44kWh and 82.56kWh, both featuring BYD’s patented blade technology. The smaller battery variant, paired with a single motor on the rear axle, delivers 204hp and 310Nm of torque with a claimed range of 510km. On the other hand, the larger 82.56kWh battery is available in both RWD and AWD configurations, offering impressive power outputs and extended ranges.
Charging Capabilities
With a charging capacity of up to 150kW, the Seal supports fast charging, allowing 10-80 percent charge in just 37 minutes. Alternatively, a standard 11kW AC charger takes approximately 8.6 hours for a full charge. Notably, the Seal is capable of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) charging, enabling users to utilize its power for outdoor activities.
Exterior Design
Drawing inspiration from the Ocean X concept, the Seal showcases BYD’s “ocean aesthetics” design language. Its sleek exterior features include a coupe-like all-glass roof, flush-fitting door handles, distinctive LED lighting elements, and elegant 19-inch alloy wheels. The sedan is offered in four captivating colors – Arctic Blue, Aurora White, Atlantis Grey, and Cosmos Black.
Interior Features
Inside the Seal, occupants are greeted with a luxurious and tech-forward cabin. The centerpiece is a rotating 15.6-inch infotainment display complemented by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver. The interior exudes sophistication with premium materials, intuitive controls, and a host of comfort features including wireless charging pads, heated and cooled seats, and a powered tailgate.
Safety and Technology
Safety remains a top priority for BYD, evident in the Seal’s comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. The sedan boasts features such as 10 airbags, ABS with hill hold, automatic wipers, and a 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility and peace of mind.
Rivals and Competition
While there are no direct competitors in the electric sedan segment at its price point, the Seal will vie against similarly priced electric vehicles (EVs) including the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Volvo XC40 Recharge. Its powerful performance, long-range capabilities, and premium features position it as a formidable contender in the market.
Warranty Coverage
BYD offers generous warranty coverage for the Seal, including an 8-year/160,000km warranty for the traction battery, an 8-year/150,000km warranty for the motor and motor controller, and a 6-year/150,000km warranty for the vehicle itself.
Conclusion
With the launch of the Seal electric sedan, BYD aims to make a significant impact in India’s burgeoning electric vehicle market. Boasting cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and a plethora of features, the Seal emerges as a compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking luxury and sustainability in their automotive endeavors.
