BYD launched its sixth model in Argentina: what it's like and how much it costs
The Chinese electric vehicle brand BYD presented on Monday night the Seal U DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV that becomes the sixth model that the Chinese brand of electrified cars commercializes in our market.
Equipped with Super Hybrid DM-i technology developed by BYD, 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, larger than the Song Pro, and therefore positions itself as the new top of the local lineup.
It measures 4.77 m in length and has a wheelbase of 2.76 m, competing with family cars of the D segment, 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.
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It arrives from China in a single version called GS.
It is sold in Argentina in a single GS version with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine with 130 hp—the first of its kind in BYD's Argentina lineup—with a high-efficiency electric system of 204 hp, achieving dynamic and refined driving without sacrificing performance or long-distance range. The maximum combined power is 238 hp and torque of 300 Nm, paired with a DHT gearbox.
The Super Hybrid DM-i technology was developed to offer a predominantly electric driving experience, efficient and adaptable to different use scenarios. The BYD Seal U DM-i offers up to 105 km of range in 100% electric mode, and achieved the maximum 5-star rating in Green NCAP.
Furthermore, thanks to this configuration, in hybrid mode it achieves a fuel 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 7 kW home charger, a portable charger, and a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) cable, providing greater practicality and versatility both in daily routine and on long trips. The Vehicle-to-Load function allows using the battery's stored energy to power external electrical devices (e.g., in emergencies or camping trips).
In terms of equipment, it stands out from other BYD models by 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, premium Infinity audio system with 9 speakers + subwoofer, dual 15 W wireless phone charger, dual-zone automatic climate control, 360° panoramic cameras, 15.6" multimedia screen, 12.3" digital instrument cluster, Head-Up Display, voice control system "Hi BYD" and Google Assistant "Hi Google", among other features.
Interior of the BYD Seal U DM-i GS, with panoramic roof.
In safety, it achieved the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests, partly due to its six airbags and a package of more than 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 consists of Obsidian Black, Snow White, Time Gray, and Smoke Gray, while interior configurations include Black and Basalt Black and Red Hare Brown.
It should be noted that, like the Shark pickup, it is imported from China outside the electrified vehicle quota 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 a new step in our growth strategy in our country and reaffirms our commitment to bringing increasingly innovative and accessible technologies to the local market. This model arrives to redefine the experience within the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, combining efficiency, safety, connectivity, and comfort with a range designed for both daily use and long-distance travel," highlighted Christian Kimelman, Country Manager of BYD Argentina.
The Seal U is a C SUV that sits at the top of the lineup in terms of price and equipment.
