BYD is preparing to introduce an updated version of its Seal electric vehicle, a key model in Australia’s EV market.
Scheduled for reveal on August 8, the new Seal will feature changes to its interior and technology.
Images from Zhang Zhuo, general manager of BYD's Ocean Series, show a redesigned cabin.
The new four-spoke steering wheel replaces the previous model's gloss black control buttons with a satin finish.
Additionally, the interior now offers a Coral Orange colour option for various elements, including the steering wheel, lower dashboard, seats, door cards, and centre console.
The seat pattern has shifted from diamond-shaped stitching to a wave design.
The dashboard features concealed air vents and an extended screen that includes a digital instrument cluster with a wave pattern graphic in front of the passenger.
The central 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen remains a separate unit.
The updated Seal will also include lidar sensors to enhance its intelligent driving system (IDS), enabling features like 'City NOA' (Navigate on Autopilot).
This technology is provided by BYD’s Robosense division.
The model will use an 800V electric architecture, up from the current 400V, which may improve charging speeds and driving range.
Reports suggest there could be changes in battery capacities, though specific details are not confirmed.
The BYD Seal has been observed in China, potentially under a new name, Seal 07.
The updated model is expected to offer more power in its rear-wheel drive version and feature a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor for better autonomous driving capabilities.
In Australia, the BYD Seal was the third best-selling EV between January and July 2024, with 4,662 units sold, compared to the Tesla Model 3’s 13,539 units.
BYD plans to expand its Australian lineup in 2024, introducing models like the Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid SUV and possibly a lower-priced version of the BYD Dolphin.
The company also aims to launch the BYD Shark plug-in hybrid ute and the Sea Lion 7 electric SUV by early 2025.
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