Would 7-seater BYD Sealion 8 PHEV work in the Philippines?

BYD expands its DM-i PHEV models with 7-seater Sealion 8

BYD is not resting on its laurels when it comes to its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) DM-i powertrain. Heck, BYD Cars Philippines is set to launch yet another new DM-i model in the form of the Sealion 5, which is set to debut next week on June 20.

Over in China, however, the brand has launched its first seven-seater crossover SUV called the Sealion 8. That's right, it's a three-row crossover SUV, and it's available with BYD's DM-i and DM-p (Dual Motor-Performance) PHEV powertrains.

Beginning with the most important aspect, the Sealion 8 DM-i is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine along with a 19 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack that drives an electric motor. The engine alone makes 149 PS with 220 Nm of torque, while the motor makes 272 PS and 315 Nm of torque. This setup allows the Sealion 8 to hit 100 km/h from a standstill in just 8.6 seconds.

Those who want something with a little more punch can also get the Sealion 8 with a DM-p powertrain. Unlike the DM-i, the DM-p gets an additional electric motor that drives the rear wheels, which generates 191 PS and 360 Nm of torque. It also gets a larger 35.6 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, which translates to having a longer electric range and can sprint from 0 – 100 km/h in only 4.9 seconds.

No range estimates were revealed by BYD, but given the DM-i PHEV setup that's similar to the likes of the Sealion 6 and Seal 5, we're guessing it's more than capable of going over 1,000 km and more. In fact, BYD claims the Sealion 8 is capable of averaging up to 18 km/L in mixed conditions. Meanwhile, the Sealion 8 DM-p can travel up to 150 km on electric power alone.

With BYD offering a 7-seater plug-in hybrid in the form of the Sealion 8, perhaps BYD Cars Philippines should consider bringing this to the country soon.