BYD Seal U DM-i

The Seal U DM-i is a family plug-in hybrid SUV with ocean-themed design and a cabin that leans on comfort. It carries an 18.3 kWh battery that gives more than 70 km (about 43 miles) of pure-electric range, and a petrol engine takes over for longer trips, for up to 1,080 km (about 671 miles) of combined range.

Hybrid system and charging

BYD Super DM technology combines the Xiaoyun petrol engine with an electric hybrid system that uses dual motors and oil cooling. The battery is a bespoke Blade Battery of 18.3 kWh. BYD quotes fuel consumption of 6.4 L/100 km and a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds for the all-wheel-drive car. DC charging at 18 kW lifts the battery from 30 to 80 percent in 35 minutes. Vehicle-to-load output is available.

Design and cabin

Staggered double U-shaped headlights and a continuous water-drop tail-light give the car a distinct look, and 19 inch aerodynamic wheels aim to cut drag. Inside, a floating centre console has a two-layer storage compartment and a crystal gear lever. The front seats are ventilated, heated, electrically adjustable and have memory, while the rear has a flat floor and ample legroom. A sliding panoramic roof, a head-up display and a rotatable touchscreen complete the cabin. The boot holds 425 litres, expanding to 1,440 litres with the rear seats folded.

Assistance and connectivity

Safety features include blind spot detection, intelligent cruise control working between 0 and 120 km/h, and rear cross traffic alert with braking. A 4G system provides navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and voice control, with over-the-air updates.

Key facts

• Powertrain: plug-in hybrid, BYD Super DM
• Electric range: over 70 km (about 43 miles)
• Battery: 18.3 kWh
• Combined range: up to 1,080 km (about 671 miles)
• DC charging: 18 kW, 30 to 80 percent in 35 minutes
• Boot: 425 litres, 1,440 litres with the seats folded