BYD is the world’s leading PHEV manufacturer with about 25% market share and sales of about 2.29 million units in CY2025.
BYD recently unveiled its advanced DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligent) plug-in-hybrid technology in India. In terms of exact model launches, possibilities include Ato 2 and Seal U. The latter is also sold as Sealion 6 in select global markets. BYD has now confirmed that it is the Sealion U/Sealion 6 that will be offered in India. Launch is likely by the end of this year. Expected to be priced around Rs 45-50 lakh, the Sealed U will primarily rival the upcoming Jetour T2 PHEV SUV (JSW Motors).
BYD Seal U – Performance, Range
In conventional PHEV systems, the internal combustion engine is the primary driver. The electric motor acts as a supporting role. BYD’s DM-i PHEV setup is the complete opposite, as it focuses on electric-first architecture. This means that for most driving needs, DM-i allows the vehicle to operate like a pure electric vehicle.
The BYD DM-i has three driving modes and switching between these modes is fully automatic. In pure EV mode, the engine is completely shut off. In series hybrid mode, the combustion engine is used to generate electricity to charge the battery. With the engine running at constant power, it can operate at its optimum efficiency.
In parallel hybrid mode, the combustion engine can provide power directly to the wheels. This mode is best suited for highway cruising and use during long trips. The BYD Sealed U DM-i setup includes a 1.5-litre direct injection, turbo-petrol engine. It works in combination with two electric motors, a traction motor and a starter generator.
For the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, the thermal efficiency is 43.04%. It is claimed to be the best in the world. Fuel consumption is 4.8 liters per 100 km, which means a mileage of approximately 20.8 km/l. Electric motors are also highly efficient at around 97.5%. BYD Seal U uses an 18.3 kWh blade battery. With the tank full and the battery fully charged, the Seal U can deliver a range of over 1,200 km.
BYD Seal U – Key Features
BYD Seal U is a 5-seater, family-oriented SUV. It was earlier showcased at the 2025 India Mobility Global Expo. The overall profile of the Sealed U is similar to the Sealed 7 electric SUV on sale in India. As part of BYD’s Ocean range, both SUVs feature ocean-inspired styling. Dimension-wise, the Sealed U SUV measures 4,775 mm long, 1,890 mm wide and 1,670 mm high. Its wheelbase is 2,765 mm.
Key features include large 19-inch alloy wheels, 15.6-inch rotatable infotainment system, Infinity premium sound system and vegan leather upholstery. The Safety Package includes a 360° view camera and a comprehensive ADAS suite. Sealed U’s international spec models deliver up to 323 hp and 550 Nm of torque. Both FWD and AWD options are available globally. Range in pure EV mode is up to 126 km. This SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.9 seconds. Specifications and equipment list may vary for the India-specific version.
