The BYD Seal is probably one of the best compact executive electric sedans on the market for the money!
Overview
What is It? What is It?
The BYD Seal is a compact executive sedan manufactured by BYD from 2022. This is a fairly new model that is extremely popular in the EV segment.
All this because of its incredible design that can be attributed to Wolfgang Egger, the man who designed many Audi and Lamborghini models.
But since 2017, he is employed by BYD as a chief designer and with his help, BYD crafted some really nice models such as the Seal.
The name Seal derives from BYD’s “Ocean Series”, which are models inspired by the ocean.
BYD? Say What?
BYD is unknown to many, especially outside China. This is the case because BYD was not present in markets across the world.
And BYD is working really hard in recent times to expand and enter some unknown seas and offer the customers outside China the chance to get a new car for a good price.
When it comes to the history of BYD, we can say that this brand started in 2003, when BYD bought a car manufacturer in Norinco, China.
BYD was a battery manufacturer, but they wanted to diversify and offer something new to the car market. So, they created one of the world’s first plug-in hybrid models. And since then, they are investing very heavily in this industry.
Overall, BYD is doing a really good job because they slowly but surely grow and nowadays they are the largest EV maker in the world.
What About the Looks?
The BYD Seal implements a very contemporary design that many of the EV makers are following.
BYD does not want to create something outlandish but something similar to the Tesla Model 3 that people would go after.
And we can say that they did a really good job when it comes to this. The BYD Seal looks phenomenal. And also the design plays a huge function because it is very aerodynamic.
The interior of the BYD Seal is another highlight because inside there is a lot that is going on, unlike the Tesla Model 3 which is very bland and sterile looking. Not everyone is looking for minimalism. And if you are one of those buyers, the BYD Seal is the way to go!
And to Drive?
Another area where the BYD Seal shines is in terms of driving. The BYD Seal is very dynamic and you will never get bored from it.
The power delivery is extremely smooth and the acceleration happens at an instant. Just like Tesla models.
Overall, the driving experience is premium in all aspects.
Do You Think You Will Take It to Heart?
Nowadays Chinese brands are entering the European markets and many people have prejudice when it comes to Chinese vehicles.
And let us tell you that Chinese carmakers have moved a long way from the past and nowadays they offer really good models.
These models are on par with Japanese, European, or American automakers. Chinese manufacturers have invested heavily into the know-how and employed some serious engineers that have been building cars in Europe or America for decades.
That’s why we think that once buyers confirm that these cars are actually good, sales will improve and more and more people will adopt these cheap alternatives.
Also, another note to add, which is the BYD Seal is a model that was crash tested in Europe and complies with the Euro NCAP testing and its principles. The model easily scored 5/5 stars overall. On par with the best out there
What’s in a Name?
The name Seal derives from ocean life. That’s how this new series of cars is called “Ocean Series”.
You have similarly named models, like the BYD Dolphin and BYD Seagull. Overall, we really like their naming scheme since many Chinese automakers have Chinese names to their models and can somewhat be avoided in the west.
You Mention High-Tech?
When it comes to implementing the latest and most advantageous tech, BYD is definitely the leader in this EV segment. BYD offers some features that other car manufacturers can only dream of. And we are specifically talking about battery technology and electric motors.
We all know how EV batteries work. There are modules that constitute the battery. The larger the battery the more modules.
And the battery used in the BYD Seal comes with a battery that is without modules. This battery is known as a blade battery.
This battery has a different approach. Instead of using individual modules, BYD stacks individual cells into arrays and then installs them into the battery.
This has many advantages, such as reducing weight and also lowering production costs. This allows BYD to produce these battery packs on a scale.
In addition to this, BYD uses lithium, iron, phosphate electrodes (LFP), while competitors offer lithium, manganese, cobalt electrodes (LMC).
This also has an advantage, which is the ability to charge these batteries at high temperatures. Something that is not possible with LMC electrodes. In addition to this, LFP electrodes are far cheaper to manufacture.
And last but not least is the electric motor, AC-DC converter, and battery management system are all in the same unit. This saves a ton of weight and makes things to manufacture even cheaper.
What’s the Verdict?
Overall the BYD Seal has impressed us in many different aspects. The Seal looks, feels and also drives extremely well!
The exterior design is all modern and follows the latest trends in the industry. The interior cabin is very well insulated and road noise is minimal. The materials used in building this model are all as expected.
The driving characteristics are typical for an EV of this class, no surprises there. But in general the BYD Seal drives pretty well. It will take you from point A to point B with no problems whatsoever. This is why if you want to get a BYD Seal, we recommend it!
Price and Specs
How Much Does BYD Seal Cost?
The price for the BYD Seal in China starts as low as $29,000 and can reach up to $40,570 for the most powerful model.
These prices are the base Chinese prices. For more specific prices, you need to check how high the import fees in your country of residence are for this specific model.
Specs:
| Price: $29,000 | Release Year: 2022 |
| Engine: Single or Dual Motor | Top Speed: 180 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: 7.5 – 3.8 seconds | Power: 201 – 523 hp |
| Torque: 310 – 670 Nm | Range: 550 – 700 km |
Driving
What is It Like to Drive?
Driving the BYD Seal is no different than any other EV. In EVs, the battery is placed very low, which means that the center of gravity is low and the ride is well balanced overall.
The powertrain in the BYD Seal develops 201 to 523 hp. Which is quite good for acceleration of 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h.
Which in our opinion is pretty decent performance for a vehicle of this class. It will take you from point A to point B with no issues whatsoever.
What About the Steering?
Steering in the BYD Seal is very light and extremely well calibrated. And although this EV weighs quite a lot, the Seal drives like a much lighter vehicle.
When you turn around the corners, the steering self centers intuitively, which is an extremely useful thing to have. When it comes to the downsides, this model suffers a bit from torque steer and the inside tires tend to lose traction in extremely wet conditions.
Talk to Me About the Ride?
The BYD Seal is a very comfortable cruiser. With this model, you just don’t feel the bumps with this model. Although it might not be as comfortable as the ATTO 3, BYD’s crossover SUV, it still delivers a good performance.
Especially on the highway where these EVs shine and cruising is becoming a real pleasure.
And the EV Efficiency?
The EV efficiency is really good with the BYD Seal. This model is able to deliver a range between 550 and 700 km.
With the BYD Seal you will basically forget about range anxiety and feeling that you are low on power.
You also have the ability to charge your Seal overnight with a 7 kW wall charger and recuperate a lot of range while the car is idle.
You also have the ability to use 88 kW DC fast charging that will charge your battery from 20 to 80% in only 30 minutes.
Browse More:
What About Steering the BYD Seal Yourself?
Driving the BYD Seal is very easy. With EVs you don’t have a shifter and a clutch. You just put it in drive and the car will move forward once you press the throttle.
These cars also do not have to use regular brakes. Since once you remove the foot from the throttle the car stops. Perfect for absolute beginners.
Is the Range Good?
The range of the BYD Seal is excellent. This model delivers really solid numbers that are in the range between 550 and 700 km.
Making the BYD Seal one of the best in this class of compact executive sedans. With this model, you will never experience range anxiety.
Interior
What is It Like on the Inside?
The interior of the BYD Seal is beautiful, there is a lot going on compared to the nearest competitor, the Tesla Model 3.
The interior of the BYD Seal does not look bland like the one in the Tesla and has a good personality to it.
The dash is well designed and the cabin is filled with high-quality materials. The technology is also on point. You have a driver’s display, as well as a huge screen for the infotainment.
We simply love the interior of the BYD Seal since this model really delivers and does not look bland like other competitor models.
Is the BYD Seal Easy to Use?
Yes, the BYD Seal is extremely easy to use. Mainly due to the fact that there are no procedures that you need to do in order to start the car.
Just put it in drive and the car will move forward once you press on the throttle.
The interior is also extremely functional and easy to use. The software is extremely intuitive and even a child can use it.
The computer is snappy and you will never experience any lag or delays until you activate a feature.
But Where’s the Instrument Panel?
The BYD Seal is an electric car, and as with most electric cars, the Seal does not include an instrument panel.
Nowadays everything is digitalized. The instrument panel is basically a large LCD display that shows the speed, battery life, as well as the warning lights.
Is It Spacious?
Yes, the BYD Seal is a pretty spacious car. It is not the largest since this is a compact sedan. But for its size it is quite spacious inside the cabin.
Between the seats you have a large center console to rest your arm on those long distance journeys and the seats are incredible.
Made out of nappa leather and ventilated on the more upscale models. Perfect for long distance trips.
How’s the Build Quality?
The build quality of the BYD Seal is very good. It is on par with most of its competitors, or even better in some areas.
This model is probably the best deal for the money out there when it comes to build quality. Since you get premium materials for a really good price.
Buying
What Should I Be Paying?
The BYD Seal is one of the most affordable compact executive sedans in China. Starting as low as $29,000. Making it a really good deal.
Although the cost of the model can increase because this model needs to be imported to your country and there are import fees in every country that are different. So, prices can increase substantially if the country you live in does not offer some incentives for buying EVs.
What Does Charging Cost?
The cost to charge your BYD Seal really depends on the country you live in. Every country charges differently for a kWh.
So, you can calculate and estimate the price. For example, in the United Kingdom, in order to charge a battery of 100 kWh, you can expect to pay about 19 British pounds. Some countries charge even more, while some even less.
How Long Will Charging Take?
BYD Seal is using DC fast charging of 88 kW. This means that you will be able to charge your BYD Seal from 20 to 80% in 30 minutes.
And if you decide to charge the battery to 100%, you can expect waiting up to an hour at the charger since charging from 80% to 100% can take the same as charging from 20 to 80%.
What About Rivals?
A rival to the BYD Seal is the Tesla Model 3. This model falls in the same class as the Seal.
But the Seal is overall a much better option since with this model you have a very upscale interior and a ton of features that you don’t have with the Tesla Model 3.
