The third entirely electric model to arrive in the UK from Chinese manufacturer BYD, also known as Build Your Dreams. The Atto 3 crossover was the first, while the more affordable £25k Dolphin hatchback was the second. Now that we have a sports saloon, which may not be the best-selling model out of the three, the range feels a little more glammed up.
In our opinion, it appears intelligent. European buyers should be greeted warmly by the overall attractiveness and clean proportions. Not least of all because you might be able to recognize the flavor of certain cars that we already know very well. We can make out an Ioniq 6 from some angles and the regrettably non-existent Ford Mondeo from others. Combining the two is not a bad thing because they are both attractive cars.
Secondly, what about inside?
More unique features can be found inside, including a full-length panoramic roof that helps create a feeling of space, and the same intriguing steering wheel design that BYD has carved out elsewhere. A 15.6-inch touchscreen that rotates and electronically flips between portrait and landscape modes is also included. Assembled onto the car’s chassis to increase body stiffness (the equivalent of a supercar, we’re told) and increase passenger legroom (though the floor is still a touch higher than you might think), the “blade battery” is something BYD claims is already robust.
Full-view sunroof
Take in the breathtaking views of nature from a panoramic sunroof. Admire the natural light that floods your car’s interior while feeling the liberation of an open sky.
Immersive theater for driving
With our top-notch audio system, enjoy a driving theater that is genuinely immersive. With 12 cutting-edge speakers, our HIFI Dynaudio Premium Sound offers unmatched acoustic performance.
ANY TECH RELATED TO THIS?
Far too much, in fact. Every one of them comes equipped with an abundance of active safety features as standard along with three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Lane keeping, accident detection, and speed limit alerts are fairly commonplace features, yet they significantly impact the driving experience. Maybe precisely how you were hoping for.
The standard quilted leather seats in the cabin are heated and ventilated, adding to the cabin’s truly premium sense. The inside is extremely beautifully put together. Another question is whether you have the courage to choose Tahitian blue trim. Additionally, it is incredibly sophisticated, with double-laminated glass and a silent engine working together to create an appropriately opulent atmosphere throughout the space. Naturally, that is, until those active safety bongs ignite.
Even if 150kW of charging isn’t exactly industry leading, it does provide you a 10-80% charge in less than 30 minutes. BYD manufactures its own batteries, something it has been doing since the 1990s, and sells them to other parts of the industry in the process. Oh, and in response to consumer criticism, UK cars now have a subdued “BYD” insignia on the rear instead of the full “BUILD YOUR DREAMS” writing that would normally titillate other drivers in the rear. Oh my.
The Torque Adaption Control (iTAC) System
With the newest iTAC technology, the BYD SEAL ups the ante. Vehicle dynamics restoration has advanced beyond conventional techniques for reducing power takeoff with the help of iTAC. Rather, it uses torque shift, proper torque reduction, and negative torque output to intelligently allocate drive torque. By effectively reducing or eliminating sliding, this cutting-edge system maximizes the vehicle’s power. It guarantees a safe and comfortable driving experience by improving handling comfort in addition to safety.
WHICH VERDICT IS IT?
“To have a true USP and really turn its competitors into fools, BYD will need to rely on competitive pricing for the Seal.”
We’re quite impressed with the Seal, which is a good addition to the EV saloon market pending official price. if not completely thrown over. While the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Polestar 2 are reasonably priced, uniquely styled competitors, and the BMW i4 steadfastly defends driving delights, the Tesla Model 3 has become almost unbearably omnipresent.
The plug-in saloon pack is far more talented, even though it isn’t quite as crowded as the EV crossover industry. BYD will need to rely on competitive price for the Seal to have a true USP and really turn its rivals into morons. This is a head-based purchase; no matter how cleverly crafted or skillfully driven it is, there isn’t an abundance of charm or character to win you over.