BYD's plug-in hybrid SUV with 1200km range spotted testing in India
BYD's first plug-in hybrid SUV, the Seal U, has been spotted testing on Indian roads ahead of a likely launch by end of 2026.
Chinese carmaker BYD, which has so far focused only on fully electric vehicles in India, is preparing to enter a new segment. The company's first plug-in hybrid SUV, the Seal U (PHEV), is being readied for the Indian market. The car was recently spotted testing on Indian roads, and it is expected to launch by the end of 2026.
The SUV's biggest highlight is its range. According to the company, with both the battery and petrol tank full, the car can together cover more than 1200 kilometres. This is enabled by BYD's "DM-i Super" plug-in hybrid technology, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, two electric motors and an 18.3 kWh battery. For short city trips, the car can run purely on electric power, saving petrol.
The advantage of this hybrid setup is that it combines the benefits of both electric and petrol vehicles. The electric mode can be used for daily city commutes, while the petrol engine provides extra range for longer trips, reducing the worry of finding a charging station. The daily home-to-office commute can be done in electric mode, while the petrol engine takes over on long trips during holidays.
In terms of size, this is a 5-seater mid-size SUV, roughly comparable in size to Mahindra's larger electric SUVs. In global markets, the car is available in a high-performance version that can go from 0 to 100 kmph in just 5.9 seconds. It measures 4775mm in length, 1890mm in width, 1670mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2765mm. In some markets, the same car is sold under the name Sealion 6. Its larger size is expected to offer better cabin space for passengers, and it could appeal to buyers who want an electric SUV with a petrol backup for long-distance travel.
On pricing, the company may set the car's price in the Indian market at approximately Rs 45 lakh to Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom). The car could be a good option for buyers who want to drive an electric vehicle but also want a petrol backup due to charging concerns.
