German Market Welcomes Plug-in Hybrid from BYD Seal U DM-i
The Chinese brand BYD has been making waves with its impressive manufacturing capabilities, so how does their first plug-in model for Europe, the Seal U DM-i, stack up against the high expectations? During the test drive, there were few noticeable issues, and the car is quite affordable compared to other electric vehicles.
Chinese manufacturers have been trying to break into the European market by introducing more and more electric cars. One of the biggest players in this field is BYD, and now they're bringing their first plug-in hybrid to Germany, called the BYD Seal U DM-i.
The Seal U DM-i is a five-door SUV measuring 4.78 meters long. It boasts an electric motor (145 kW/198 hp) and a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine (96 kW/130 hp), with a total output of 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 300 Nm. The base "Boost" model, priced at 38,900 euros, includes advanced features like a head-up display, panoramic roof, a sound system with ten speakers, 19-inch wheels, and all assistance systems. This model has an electric range of only 80 kilometers, which is not particularly impressive.
The "Design" version, costing 44,500 euros, has all-wheel drive with an additional rear electric motor, increasing the output to 238 kW/324 hp and 550 Nm of torque. However, the extra weight reduces the electric range to 70 kilometers. Both the "Boost" and "Design" variants are set to be available in Germany in June.
The most interesting variant
But it's the "Comfort" version that might be the most intriguing model of the bunch. It retains the same powertrain as the "Boost" but comes with a larger battery (26.6 kWh capacity instead of 18.3 kWh). This considerably increases the electric range to 125 kilometers. With its large 60-liter fuel tank, a theoretical range of 1,100 kilometers is achievable. BYD hasn't yet released the price for this model, but we're anticipating a price of around 41,000 euros.
BYD has made significant progress in nearly all aspects of automobile production, as seen in the stylish SUV body of the Seal U DM-i, which is not far behind European-made models from high-volume manufacturers. The interior offers a comfortable seating area and is equipped with high-quality materials. The car also features a 15.6-inch portrait screen that can be rotated between portrait and landscape orientations.
The vehicle exhibited minimal flaws during a thorough test drive. The suspension system was comfortable enough to handle the often poor Italian roads, with deep potholes. However, the body tended to bounce slightly on longer undulations. The steering could also use more precision. But these are minor issues that most drivers probably wouldn't notice in their daily commutes. The rearview camera, as well as other standard features, helped address the usual driving blind spots.
The Seal U DM-i has two operating modes. In the first mode, it drives entirely electrically, perfect for city use or congested areas. In the second mode (HEF), the petrol engine supports the power of the electric motor, especially during acceleration. You can also choose between 25 and 70 percent of when the four-cylinder engine recharges the battery, tackling concerns about "German range anxiety."
Not a sports car
However, the Seal U DM-i is not a sports car despite BYD's claim of a 0-60 mph time under six seconds in the most potent "Design" model. The design is too comfortable, and the seats are tailored for comfort instead of speed. No need to rush an electric or, in this case, semielectric vehicle on the highway.
The Seal U DM-i, particularly in the "Comfort" version, stands out as one of the few plug-ins capable of covering medium to long distances while remaining purely electric in daily life. While we'll need to conduct a more thorough test to confirm a possible range of 90 to 100 miles, it's safe to say that the electric range of 125 kilometers is a promising start.
Chinese car makers are advancing rapidly, and BYD is no exception. As a consumer, you might consider purchasing a car from China. On the other hand, as a driver, there isn't much to criticize about this situation. But if you're up against the choice to save thousands of euros or more on equipment, people in the western world may be swayed in the future. After all, money isn't the only thing that defines relationships and loyalty to local brands.
The BYD Seal U DM-i (variant: Boost): Technical Specs
- A mid-range, five-door, five-seater SUV
- Length: 4.78 meters, width: 1.89 meters (with mirrors: unknown), height: 1.67 meters, wheelbase: 2.77 meters, trunk capacity: 425 - 1440 liters
- Powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 96 kW/130 hp, and an electric motor with 145 kW/198 hp
- Combined output: 160 kW/218 hp, system torque: 300 Nm, 0-100 km/h: 8.9 seconds
- Top speed: 170 km/h, consumption: 21 kWh + 0.9 liters/100 kilometers, electric range: 80 km (WLTP), total range: 1,080 km, battery: 18.3 kWh, fuel tank: 60 liters, charging power: 11 kW (AC), 18 kW (DC), charging time (DC) from 30 to 80 percent: 35 minutes
- Price: €38,900
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Source: www.ntv.de
