BYD Seal: Everything You Need To Know

Chinese carmaker BYD is looking to release another EV into UK markets following the launch of the Atto 3 crossover and Dolphin hatchback.

But can the new Seal saloon challenge established EVs such as the Tesla Model 3? In this article, we go over everything we know so far.

Key facts:

• 354-mile range on single-motor option
• 3.8-second 0-62mph on dual-motor option
• 523bhp on dual-motor option
• Latest e-Platform tech
• Estimated £45,000 price tag
• Deliveries expected in the UK later this year

Specifications

From launch, there’ll be a single motor and a dual motor option to choose between. Both include an 82kWh battery and utilise BYD’s advanced e-Platform technology.

This means that a 354-mile range is possible on the single-motor variant. This option allows a 5.9-second 0-62mph time with 308bhp.

The more powerful dual motor variant has 523bhp and can go from 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds. However, the added performance drops the range to 323 miles.

20-80% charging in under 30 minutes is possible on both cars.

Exterior

The Seal has a stylish saloon fastback exterior with a sloping roof and sweeping lines. Despite carrying over its ocean-based design language, the outside doesn’t share many similarities with its Atto 3 sibling.

Sharp headlights at the front, a full-width lightbar at the rear and flush door handles help to complete a premium look which should help the Seal compete with the likes of Polestar and Tesla.

Interior & technology

Inside, BYD has made an effort to make the cabin as premium as the exterior. A rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen is joined by a striking 10.25-inch digital display that holds up against the best EVs in its class.

The interior is spacious enough to comfortably seat 5 people due to a 2,920mm wheelbase that can provide executive saloon levels of legroom. A 400-litre boot and smart interior storage spaces ensure travelling is easy and convenient.

Lots of safety equipment comes as standard such as Forward Collision Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, plus Lane Keep Assistance, Lane Change Assist and Emergency Lane Keep.

A large panoramic roof adds to the sense of space by letting in plenty of light and privacy glass on the rear doors allows rear occupants to hide away.

Release date & pricing

BYD Seal deliveries are expected to begin towards the end of the year in the UK. The rear-wheel-drive model should be priced around the £45,000 mark.

BYD has also confirmed that an SUV version of the Seal called the Seal U will be sold in the UK at some point in the future.

In the meantime, click here to take a look at our BYD Atto 3 pricing and BYD Dolphin pricing.