BYD launched its sixth model in Argentina: what it's like and how much it costs
The Chinese electrified car brand presented the Seal U DM-i, a plug-in hybrid C SUV. It does not fall under the tax exemption quota and positions itself at the top of the local lineup.
BYD Argentina presented the Seal U DM-i on Monday night, a plug-in hybrid SUV that becomes the sixth model the Chinese electrified car brand sells in our market.
Equipped with the Super Hybrid DM-i technology developed by BYD, this C SUV "offers a predominantly electric driving experience, smooth and quiet, with over 105 kilometers of range in 100% electric mode and up to 1,105 kilometers of combined range, making it 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-end of the local lineup.
It measures 4.77 meters in length and has a wheelbase of 2.76 meters, so it competes almost with D-segment family cars, although it has only five seats and two rows (some competitors offer three rows and seven seats).
Trunk capacity is 552 liters, expandable to 1,440 liters.
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 Argentine lineup, with a high-efficiency electric system of 204 hp, achieving dynamic and refined driving without compromising performance or long-distance range.
Maximum combined power is 238 hp and torque is 300 Nm, paired with a DHT transmission.
The Super Hybrid DM-i technology was developed to offer a predominantly electric driving experience, efficient and adaptable to different usage 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 consumption of 5.1 l/100 km, while the intelligent energy management system maximizes efficiency and optimizes performance on every trip.
For 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 for both daily routines and long-distance travel.
The Vehicle-to-Load function allows using the battery's stored energy to power external electrical devices (for example, in emergencies or camping trips).
In terms of equipment, it stands out from other BYD models, offering higher quality and a greater display of technology: it includes a panoramic sunroof, integrated one-piece front seats with electric adjustment for driver and passenger and ventilation system, premium Infinity audio system with 9 speakers + subwoofer, dual 15W wireless phone charger, dual-zone automatic climate control, 360° panoramic cameras, 15.6-inch multimedia system, 12.3-inch integrated digital instrument panel, Head-Up Display, "Hi BYD" voice control system and "Hi Google" Google Assistant, among other features.
In safety, it achieved the maximum 5-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 keep assist and centering, 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 options are Black and Basalt Black and Red Hare Brown.
It is worth mentioning 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 range 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 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.
