BYD launched its sixth model in Argentina: what it's like and how much it costs
The Chinese brand of electrified cars presented the Seal U DM-i, a plug-in hybrid C SUV. It does not enter the tax exemption quota and positions itself at the top of the local offering.
BYD Argentina presented the Seal U DM-i on Monday evening, a plug-in hybrid SUV that becomes the sixth model that the Chinese electrified car brand markets in our market.
Equipped with BYD's Super Hybrid DM-i technology, this C SUV "offers a predominantly electric driving experience, smooth and silent, with more than 105 kilometers of range in 100% electric mode and up to 1,105 kilometers of combined range, becoming an ideal alternative for both daily city use and long-distance travel," highlights the technology brand.
What is the new BYD Seal like?
The BYD Seal U DM-i is a new SUV, in this case larger than the Song Pro, and therefore positions itself as the new top of the range in the local lineup.
It measures 4.77 m in length and has a wheelbase of 2.76 m, so it almost competes with D-segment family cars, although it only has five seats and two rows (some competitors offer three rows and seven seats).
The trunk capacity is 552 liters, expandable to 1,440 liters.
It is marketed in Argentina in a single GS version with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine of 130 hp, the first of its kind in BYD's vehicle range in Argentina, with a high-efficiency electric system of 204 hp, achieving dynamic and refined driving without sacrificing performance or range for long-distance trips.
The maximum combined power is 238 hp and torque is 300 Nm, coupled with a DHT transmission.
The Super Hybrid DM-i technology was developed to offer a predominantly electric, efficient driving experience adaptable to different usage scenarios. The BYD Seal U DM-i offers up to 105 km of range in 100% electric mode, and also obtained the maximum 5-star rating in Green NCAP.
Furthermore, thanks to this configuration, in hybrid mode it achieves a consumption of 5.1 L/100 km, while the intelligent energy management system maximizes efficiency and optimizes performance on every journey.
To offer a comprehensive user experience, it comes with a home charger of up to 7 kW, a portable charger, and a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) cable, providing greater practicality and versatility for both daily routine and long-distance travel.
The Vehicle-to-Load functionality allows using the energy stored in the battery to power external electrical devices (e.g., in emergencies or camping trips).
In terms of equipment, it stands out from other BYD models, offering higher quality and technology: it includes a panoramic sunroof, one-piece integrated front seats with electric adjustment for driver and passenger and ventilation system, Infinity premium audio system with 9 speakers + subwoofer, dual 15 W wireless phone chargers, dual-zone automatic climate control, 360° panoramic cameras, 15.6" multimedia system, 12.3" integrated digital instrument cluster, Head-Up Display, voice control system "Hi BYD" and Google Assistant "Hi Google", among other features.
In safety, it obtained the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests, partly due to its six airbags, and a package of over 20 advanced driver assistance systems, including autonomous emergency braking, intelligent cruise control, forward collision warning, lane keeping and centering assist, blind spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert and braking.
Launch price:
BYD Seal U DM-i GS: US$ 47,990
The color range includes Obsidian Black, Snow White, Time Gray, and Smoke Gray, while interior configurations include Black, Basalt Black, and Red Hare Brown.
It is worth mentioning that, like the Shark pickup, it is imported from China outside the quota for electrified vehicles opened by the national government, as it exceeds US$ 16,000 FOB.
The Seal joins the lineup that until now consisted of: Dolphin Mini, Yuan Pro, Atto 2, Song Pro, and Shark.
"This new launch in Argentina represents another step in our growth strategy in our country and reaffirms our commitment to bring increasingly innovative and accessible technologies to the local market. This model redefines the experience within the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, combining efficiency, safety, connectivity, and comfort with range designed for both daily use and long-distance travel," highlighted Christian Kimelman, Country Manager of BYD Argentina.
