BYD, the Chinese electric car manufacturer, is gearing up to launch the anticipated Seal sedan in India on March 05. The model was initially unveiled in India at the 2023 Auto Expo and has now been listed on the brand's official site as well. It is based on the firm's dedicated e-Platform 3.0. The EV was previously spotted undergoing testing in India, and according to several industry reports, a few dealers have begun taking unofficial reservations for the upcoming electrified vehicle. Following the addition of the Seal, BYD's India portfolio will now include three models, with the Atto 3 and the e6 electric MPV rounding out the lineup. Speaking of dimensions, the car measures 4,800mm in length, 1,875mm in width, and 1,460mm in height.
BYD Seal Electric Sedan: Exterior Cues
The Ocean X concept, which debuted in 2021, influenced the design of the Seal EV. Full-width LED taillights that span the length of the boot lid, flush door handles, alloy wheels with diamond cuts, and crystal LED headlights with boomerang-shaped LED DRLs are among its aesthetic features.
It is interesting to note that the Seal is also among the top 10 finalists of the 2024 World Car of the Year Awards (WCOTY). The winner of the same will be announced live on March 27 at this year's New York International Auto Show.
BYD Seal Electric Sedan: Mechanical Components
The international-spec BYD Seal is outfitted with 82.5kWh and 61.4kWh battery packs. These units provide a driving range of up to 700 and 550 kilometres, respectively. However, it is expected that the long-range variant, which features a dual-motor AWD (all-wheel drive) system with a maximum power output of 523bhp and peak torque of 670Nm, will be offered in our market. In terms of performance, the electric car has an aero drag coefficient of 0.219Cd and can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds. The maker also provides a rapid charging capacity of up to 150 kW for the larger pack, while the smaller pack is compatible with fast chargers of up to 110 kW.
BYD Seal Electric Sedan: Cabin and Features
The car's interior arrangement reflects the "ocean" theme. Moreover, the car's air vents are wave-shaped and have a tinge of vivid blue. The steering wheel sports three spokes and a flat bottom. Furthermore, the main screen spans 15.6 inches and can be adjusted between landscape and portrait configurations. Other features include a 10.25-inch digital driver's display, head-up display, two wireless charging pads, a panoramic glass roof along with ADAS capabilities like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
The standard version of the model, which is offered all around the world, comes with 10 speakers. However, the most expensive models in the portfolio include 12 Dynaudio speakers. The lower-spec Seal models lack amenities such as a 220 V outlet, ambient lighting, and heated and ventilated front seats.
A 5-Star Safety Rating in Euro NCAP Crash Tests
Last year, the Seal EV received a perfect 5-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP crash test, making it one of the safest vehicles. For adult occupants, it earned 89%, for kid occupants, 87%, for Vulnerable Road Users, and 76% for Safety Assist. The model under analysis was equipped with a centre airbag, side airbags, belt load limiters, pre-tensioners, and dual front airbags. Additionally, there were seatbelt reminders, airbag cut-off switches, ISOFIX child seat mounts, Lane Assist System, Fatigue/Distraction Detection, and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
BYD Seal Electric Sedan: Competition Check
Speaking of the international markets, the Seal EV has a direct market rival in the form of the Tesla Model 3 abroad, but since the American EV giant has not yet arrived in the Indian market, the Chinese sedan upon launch, will face competition from the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6 for now.
Write your Comment