The automotive industry is experiencing a significant shift with electric vehicles, and the latest brand to rise as a significant player in this space is Build Your Dreams (BYD). With a focus on innovation, technology, delivery times and value, BYD has gained recognition globally and is now making its mark in the European market. One of BYD’s latest offerings is the BYD Seal, an all-electric car challenging established brands such as Tesla and Hyundai. We recently attended the launch of the BYD SEAL, experiencing its features, performance, and looking at the potential impact it may have on the EV market.
A Next-Generation EV
When BYD claims that the Seal is a “next-generation” EV, what they mean is that the company has invested heavily in researching the competition and developing their product to seriously compete. The BYD Seal boasts impressive specifications with a sleek design. With its similarities to the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3, the Seal is taking a crack at the established market share.
Powertrain and Range
Under the hood, the BYD Seal features BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, a scalable platform that has already proven successful in other BYD models. The Seal is available in two motor options: a 308bhp single-motor rear-wheel drive variant and a range-topping dual-motor, all-wheel drive model with 523bhp. The rear-wheel drive variant offers an impressive range of 570 km on a full battery, while the all-wheel drive model has a claimed range of 520 km. Charging the Seal, the maximum charge rate is 150kW so at maximum capacity the Seal would reach a 30-80% charge in around 26 minutes. For home charging, the Seal can be connected to a three-phase supply at up to 11kW or charged overnight using a 7kW wallbox.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance, the BYD Seal does not disappoint. The all-wheel drive Excellence model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km in just 3.8 seconds but straight line speed won’t necessarily mean athletic ability. We look forward to testing this further.
On the road, the BYD Seal exhibits decent handling and agility. With direct steering the Seal responds promptly to driver inputs. It offers a balanced and neutral driving experience, with low levels of body roll and good body control. The brakes provide consistent stopping power, ensuring a safe and confident driving experience.
Design and Interior
The design of the BYD Seal is a blend of aerodynamic efficiency and modern EV. Its sleek curves and smooth lines create an exterior that looks like it lets the air swoosh right over it. The front end of the Seal bears a resemblance to the Hyundai Ioniq 6 while the rear three-quarters of the car (especially in white) resembles the rear of an EQE.
Inside the Seal, they’ve created a spacious and comfortable cabin. The 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment sits on the centre console in either portrait or landscape positions, it offers a seamless and intuitive user experience, something that not many manufacturers can do well. The cabin has a quality feel, with soft-touch plastics, suede, and vegan leather. The seats are well-shaped and comfortable, providing a pleasant driving experience.
Practicality and Space
Despite its sporty silhouette, the BYD Seal offers impressive practicality and ample space. The compact blade battery design allows for a lower floor and more effective interior packaging. This results in generous legroom for both front and rear passengers, rivalling the Tesla Model 3 in terms of space. The panoramic glass roof floods the cabin with light, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the Seal offers a 400-litre boot, though a hatchback design may be more practical for some.
Price and Finance Options
The BYD Seal is competitively priced, positioning it as a viable alternative to its rivals. With a starting price of €44,036 for the Design model, the Seal offers similar performance and specifications to the Tesla Model 3 which now starts at €42,990. BYD also provides finance options, allowing customers to purchase the Seal with monthly payments starting from €535.27 P/M.
Conclusion
The Build Your Dreams SEAL represents a significant step forward in the world of electric vehicles. With its impressive range, performance, and practicality, the Seal is an interesting competitor to the established brands in the market. BYD’s commitment to innovation and value is evident from its advanced powertrain to its luxury feeling interior. As the EV market continues to evolve, the BYD Seal appears to be making an impact.