BYD Seal EV launched in Malaysia, from RM180k, up to 530PS/670Nm, 650km range

KUALA LUMPUR: The electric vehicle market in Malaysia is heating up  with many new EVs slated for launch in 2024.

Kicking off the lineup for 2024 and making a grand entrance into BYD's local offerings is the sleek all-electric sedan, joining the esteemed ranks of the Atto 3 SUV and Dolphin models - presenting the magnificent BYD Seal.

Let’s get to know the full details of the new BYD Seal EV -

Variants and price

Contrary to earlier speculations about three variants hitting Malaysian shores, the Seal makes its grand entrance here in just two distinctive models and BYD Sime Darby Motors Malaysia, the official distributor of BYD cars in Malaysia, offers the Seal in two variants - RWD Premium and Performance AWD . 

The third and base model which has been dropped was supposed to be the Dynamic variant which some countries like Singapore and Thailand are offering.

They are priced as follows - 

RWD Premium - RM179,800

Performance AWD - RM199,800

The first 800 bookers will enjoy complimentary wallbox chargers and free Gentari or ChargEV charging credits worth RM800.

Drivetrain, range, and charging

The entry-spec variant is powered by a single rear wheel drive electric motor capable of making 312 PS of maximum power and 360 Nm of peak torque, which allows the EV to run from a standstill to 100 kmph in 5.9 seconds. Feeding the motor is a 82 kWh BYD Blade Battery pack, which offers a range of 650 km (on the WLTP cycle).

The Performance AWD variant on the other hand  is powered by a dual drive electric motor capable of making 530 PS of maximum power and 670 Nm of peak torque, which allows the EV to run from a standstill to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds. Feeding the motor is a 82 kWh BYD Blade Battery pack, which offers a range of 580 km (on the WLTP cycle).

When it comes to charging, both support up to 150kW and take take only 37 minutes to charge the battery from 10 to 80% SoC, ensuring that drivers can quickly recharge and get back on the road. When it comes to AC charging however, the EVs come equipped with 7 kW AC Type 2 charging capabilities and would take a considerable amount of time, approximately 15.2 hours, to charge the units from 0 to 100% state of charge (SoC). 

Exterior & Interior

Wolfgang Egger, BYD's Global Chief Designer, leads the way with the innovative BYD SEAL, marking a new era in automotive design inspired by the "Ocean Aesthetics" philosophy.

The latest model, influenced by the "X" concept, blends style and performance seamlessly with its sleek, aerodynamic design, enhancing both appeal and efficiency.

Notable features like the wave waistline, waterdrop mirrors, panoramic glass roof, and LED tail lights exude natural elegance, reminiscent of waves and mountains.

With a spacious interior boasting 400L of boot space and an extra 50L under the bonnet, the BYD SEAL stands boldly at 4800mm long and 1875mm wide.

The luxurious Thaumas Black interior, paired with the crystal gearshift, adds a touch class.

Suspension and drive

The BYD SEAL is said to offer top-notch vehicle handling and comfort with its double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, ensuring precise control and a smooth ride.

The Premium and Performance AWD variant both stands out with striking 19-inch alloy wheels sporting 235/45 R19 specifications. Designed for both looks and performance, the BYD SEAL promises an exceptional driving experience tailored to every driver's taste.

Equipped with the iTAC intelligent torque adaptation control system, the SEAL delivers optimal performance in diverse driving conditions.

Its 50:50 front and rear axle load distribution ensure balanced and responsive driving. With a tight turning radius of 5.7 meters, maneuvering through city streets is a breeze, highlighting the SEAL's versatility as an EV suited for urban environments.

Connectivity

As expected, the BYD SEAL boasts modern automotive technology, featuring a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen at the center of its cabin for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.

The BYD intelligent cockpit system works with the BYD App for improved connectivity and control. Voice command functionality makes interacting with the vehicle's system easy.

It also includes a premium HIFI Dynaudio sound system for excellent audio quality and an advanced PM2.5 filtration system for clean air inside the cabin, prioritizing occupants' health and well-being.

Safety

The electric sedan comes loaded with an impressive safety pack, ensuring peace of mind and protection for both the driver and passengers. It includes the following active and passive gears - 

• Nine airbags ((front, front and rear side, side curtain and far-side driver)
• Anti-lock braking system with Electronic brakeforce distribution system
• Adaptive Cruise Control 
• Automatic Emergency Braking 
• Intelligent power brake system
• Emergency Lane Keeping Assist 
• Lane Keeping Support 
• Lane Departure Warning 
• Lane Change Collision Warning 
• Lane Departure Prevention
• Predictive Collision Warning
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Brake
• Blind Spot Detection 
• Door opening warning 
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• 360-degree camera system
•  Parking sensors (two front and three rear)

Colours

Colour options include:

• Arctic Blue (exclusive to the Performance variant)
• Cosmos Black, Atlantis Grey, and Aurora White (available for Premium).

Warranty and BYD Seal Package

BYD and Sime Darby Motors are excited to introduce two comprehensive service packages for the highly anticipated BYD SEAL electric vehicle: the Standard and Plus packages.

These thoughtfully designed plans offer peace of mind and include tire alignment, balancing, and rotation. They aim to provide hassle-free car ownership, protecting the investment and minimizing potential future costs.

As a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction, the BYD SEAL comes with an extensive warranty package, featuring a 6-year or 150,000km vehicle warranty, an 8-year or 160,000km battery warranty, and an equally robust 8-year or 150,000km drive unit warranty.

With these warranties, BYD Malaysia wants to ensure unparalleled after-sales support, guaranteeing utmost confidence and satisfaction for every BYD owner.

Also Read:  BYD Seal U SUV introduced - Larger than Atto 3, 500km range, tentative price from RM215k