BYD is set to introduce another electric vehicle model to the European market in February. This time, it's the Seal U, an SUV variant of the Seal electric saloon introduced last year.
The BYD Seal U is a five-seater SUV that sits below the larger seven-seater BYD Tang SUV. Its dimensions are 4,785 x 1,890 x 1,668 millimeters, with a wheelbase of 2,765 millimeters. The electric mid-class SUV will be available in two trim levels: Comfort and Design. The basic Comfort version starts at 41,990 euros, while the higher-end Design trim begins at 44,990 euros.
In Germany and several other EU countries, the Seal U becomes the sixth model in BYD's lineup. It's essentially an SUV counterpart to the Seal electric saloon, which has already been available in Europe since its debut at the IAA Mobility in Munich in 2023. It's worth noting that this new model will be offered in two versions, both featuring LFP batteries: one with a 71.8 kWh capacity for a range of 420 kilometers and another with an 87 kWh capacity for a WLTP range of 500 kilometers.
Like the Seal, Dolphin, and Atto 3, this new D-Class SUV is built on BYD's e-platform 3.0, utilizing the company's 'blade batteries' with LFP cell chemistry in an 800-volt configuration.
BYD Seal U
While both the Seal and its SUV variant boast innovative safety, comfort, and performance technologies, they cater to different customer segments, according to BYD. The electric saloon aims to appeal with its sporty character, whereas the five-seater SUV emphasizes versatility, comfort, and spaciousness. This distinction is also reflected in the powertrain: the Seal U is equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous motor generating 160 kW and 330 Nm of torque on the front axle. It achieves a top speed of 175 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds. All-wheel drive is not offered for the Seal U. In contrast, the Seal sedan combines an 82 kWh battery with either a 230 kW rear-wheel drive or a 390 kW all-wheel drive, delivering WLTP ranges of 570 or 520 kilometers.
BYD Seal U
In addition to the core specifications, BYD has announced a three-phase 11 kW on-board charger for AC charging and a DC fast charging feature with standard charging powers of 115 kW (Comfort) or 140 kW (Design) for this E-SUV. The charging time from 30% to 80% should be around 27 minutes in the latter case. BYD has not provided information on the usual charging process in Europe, from 10% to 80%. The model also supports V2L, allowing it to serve as a charging source for external devices.
BYD claims a trunk volume of 552 liters, which expands to 1,440 liters when the rear seats are folded down (in a 60:40 ratio). Additional features include wireless charging cradles for cell phones and four USB ports. BYD has emphasized practicality in the development of this family-friendly SUV. The vehicle's aerodynamic coefficient (cW) is reported to be 0.32.
Deliveries of the Seal U in Europe are expected to commence in February. Customers will have the choice between the two trim levels, six paint colors, and two interior color schemes. The prices mentioned include a manufacturer's warranty covering six years or up to 150,000 kilometers. Furthermore, BYD guarantees 70% of the battery capacity for vehicles up to eight years old or with a mileage of 200,000 kilometers. The electric motor is covered by an eight-year warranty, with a maximum mileage of 150,000 kilometers.
Source: BYD
