BYD Seal U DM-i

Autonomie Record

The world’s leading manufacturer of electric vehicles, Chinese manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) has dethroned Tesla and will have 60 sales outlets by the end of the year. It has just unveiled its latest model: the Seal U DM-i.

By Fred Millet

The recipe for success lies in the fact that the company has a long history of manufacturing batteries (since 1995 for Nokia and Motorola) and that most of its components are manufactured in-house. A factory will even be built in Europe (Hungary) to establish a long-term presence on the Old Continent.

After unveiling the Seal U at the start of the year, a 4.78m all-electric SUV capable of competing with the world’s best-selling electric model, the Tesla Y, BYD is now adding a rechargeable hybrid model, the Seal U DM-i, to its range. This enables it to meet the needs of professional customers who want a long range. And with 1,080km, the DM-i achieves its objective! Pricing is also more competitive, starting at €37,500 for the 217 bhp Boost version and €44,500 for the 323 bhp Design version. Both models are powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, although the Design version is turbocharged.

But it’s the technology that really makes the difference, with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a top-quality audio system (10 Infinity speakers), head-up display, traffic sign recognition and driver fatigue management! In short, these are great advances in terms of safety, connectivity and well-being, while retaining all the advantages of the 100% electric Seal u from which it is derived. It has been available to order since the end of May, and the first deliveries are expected in September. And it comes with a guarantee that is rare on the market: 6 years or 150,000km. The Chinese alternative is on its way!