All-electric BYD Seal coming to PH after all

BYD PH to hold official launch of Seal EV at 2024 EV Summit

Last year, BYD invited us to test out the Seal and Seagull electric vehicles (EVs) at the Zhuhai International Circuit in the PRC. Despite our short time with the vehicles, we were thoroughly impressed with the performance, technology, and practicality of both vehicles. What's better is the fact that the Seagull recently made its debut in the Philippines and is selling at a budget-friendly PHP 898,000.

As for the Seal, BYD Philippines mentioned before that they will not be able to offer the all-electric midsize sedan due to its high price and the shrinking D-segment market. Fast forward to October 2024, BYD had a change of mind and announced that the Seal will be making its debut at this year's Electric Vehicle Summit.

You read right, the stylish, sporty, and swift BYD Seal has been confirmed for the Philippine market. It's all set to be launched at the SMX Convention Center on October 25 in Pasay City although official specifications have yet to be revealed.

Once unveiled, the PH-spec BYD Seal could be available in several variants which may include RWD and AWD versions. Should it be based on the 2025 model year, the BYD Seal could get the new 800V architecture which will make it recharge faster. In addition, it might be offered with two battery packs – one with 61.44 kWh and another with 80.64 kWh. The former is estimated to give the Seal a range of up to 510 km while the latter is expected to give it a range of up to 650 km based on the CLTC cycle.

When it comes to power output, the 2025 Seal with the single electric motor (RWD) is available with up to 308 PS. Meanwhile, the more powerful AWD variant with a pair of electric motors is expected to crank out over 520 PS. Last but not least, the 2025 Seal could come with adaptive dampers to deliver a better ride while also improving handling.

Interior amenities for the BYD Seal will likely include the brand's signature rotating touchscreen infotainment system, leather upholstery, LED ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a pair of wireless charging pads, and a host of intelligent driver aids.

With the launch set for next week, we'll be keeping our eyes out for any additional info about the upcoming BYD Seal.