Updated Model of Mid-size SUV by BYD Sealion Débuts in China Market
The Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled the Sealion 06, a mid-size SUV that is now available in China as both an all-electric vehicle (EV) and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The Sealion 06 boasts competitive pricing, starting around $19,300 to just over $20,000 USD for the EV version, depending on trim levels.
Key Features and Specifications
Powertrain
The EV versions of the Sealion 06 offer single-motor rear-wheel drive with power outputs of 170 kW (227 hp) or 180 kW (241 hp), and an optional dual-motor all-wheel drive with combined power up to 290 kW (388 hp). PHEV versions use BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i system with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine (74 kW max) and a 160 kW electric motor producing 260 Nm torque. Battery sizes for PHEVs are 18.3 kWh or 26.6 kWh, delivering electric-only ranges of 121 km or 170 km, respectively.
Battery and Range
EV trims of the Sealion 06 come with BYD Blade batteries of 65.28 kWh or 78.72 kWh. Under the CLTC cycle, the driving range is about 610 km for the long-range EV variant and about 520 km for the standard battery version.
Charging
The EV supports 800V architecture enabling fast DC charging, especially on higher trims. PHEV variants support up to 54 kW DC fast charging and external 3.3 kW power discharge in some trims.
Interior and Convenience
The Sealion 06 offers a spacious interior with a trunk capacity of 757 liters, expandable to 1,630 liters by folding the rear seats. It features ventilated and heated front seats with air-suction cooling, a large panoramic sunroof (1.73 m²), a premium Dynaudio sound system (segment exclusive), wireless charging, integrated mini-fridge, and a rotary temperature control dial.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Standard across all versions are seven airbags, over 30 advanced safety functions. The Sealion 06 also features BYD’s “God’s Eye” DiPilot 100 intelligent driving system supporting current highway navigation-assisted driving (NOA) with expectations of future feature expansion via OTA updates. Other features include Sentinel Mode, Remote View monitoring, NFC-based key access, in-vehicle ETC, and a rear wiper covering 87.3% of the rear windshield.
Dimensions
The Sealion 06 is slightly larger than BYD’s Sealion 05, with dimensions suitable for the mid-size SUV class and offering comfortable interior space.
Pricing Details
The EV range starts at about 139,800 yuan (~$19,300) to 163,800 yuan (~$23,000), depending on battery and motor options. PHEV trims are similarly priced in the market with variations depending on battery size and features.
A Potential European Version
Currently, the BYD Sealion 06 is exclusive to the Chinese market. While no concrete announcements have been made regarding an imminent launch or specific European version, given BYD’s expanding international presence and interest in markets such as Australia, a broader release or adaptation for export markets like Europe could be possible in the future, though no official plans have been disclosed to date.
- The Sealion 06, an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle from BYD, marks an entry into the automotive industry's electric-vehicles segment and the finance sector, as it offers competitive pricing.
- The technology behind the Sealion 06 includes BYD's fifth-generation DM-i system in the PHEV versions, and Blade batteries in the EV trims, contributing to the advancement of the transportation industry.
- In terms of lifestyle, the Sealion 06 offers premium features such as a Dynaudio sound system, wireless charging, and an integrated mini-fridge, making it an appealing choice for discerning consumers.
- If the Sealion 06 were to launch in Europe, it could substantially impact the European automotive industry, given BYD's potential for growth in international markets, and the increasing demand for electric vehicles in the region.
