BYD has introduced a refreshed version of its Seal electric sedan in the Chinese market. While the exterior changes are subtle, the interior and technology upgrades are more pronounced.
Subtle Exterior Refresh
The facelifted BYD Seal retains the sleek and aerodynamic profile of its predecessor. However, upon closer inspection, one can notice subtle refinements such as a new color option, redesigned alloy wheels, and a red-accented BYD logo on the tailgate. The most significant exterior change is the addition of a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, which enhances the car’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Interior Upgrades
The interior of the Seal facelift receives a more substantial overhaul. A new flat-bottom steering wheel replaces the previous design, while a dual-tone color scheme adds a touch of sophistication. The dashboard layout has been simplified, with the central AC vents relocated to below the infotainment screen. These changes contribute to a cleaner and more modern look.
Enhanced Technology
One of the most significant upgrades in the facelifted Seal is the adoption of an 800V electrical architecture, dubbed e-Platform 3.0 Evo by BYD. This new platform enables faster charging times, reducing the 10-80% charging time from 37 minutes to 25 minutes. While the exact peak charging rate is yet to be confirmed, this improvement is a significant step forward for electric vehicle charging technology.
The integration of a LiDAR sensor further enhances the Seal’s ADAS capabilities, enabling more advanced features such as improved adaptive cruise control and automated parking.
Continued Dominance in the EV Market
BYD’s decision to introduce a facelift for the Seal so soon after its launch demonstrates the company’s commitment to staying ahead of the competition. The updated model, with its improved charging speed, advanced technology, and refined interior, is poised to strengthen BYD’s position in the growing electric vehicle market.
While the Seal facelift is currently available in China, it is likely that the updated model will eventually make its way to other markets, including India. If and when this happens, it will be interesting to see how the facelifted Seal competes against established rivals such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.