ByD Seal U DM-i in Greece: First impressions, prices and publications

We lead to the Athenian Riviera the brand new Seal U DM-i, the family Plug-in hybrid D-SUV, and we are impressed with its comfort and honor! We know the BYD Seal in person. U DM-i (Dual Mode-intelligant) at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel in the first official presentation and then we lead it to a classic favorite route of the Athenian Riviera. The luxury Plug-in Hybrid SUV is the first hybrid of the range and is yet another member of the BYD family next to the electric Atto 3, Seal, Seal U and Dolphin, already in Greece. The SUV belongs to D segment and has advanced technology and rich equipment, immediately gaining impressions, while its price starts at 38,900 euros. With state-of-the-art technology very close to EV, Seal U DM-i is BYD’s first vehicle in Europe with Super DM (Dual Mode) technology, which offers purely electric autonomy from 70 to 80km, depending on version. More specifically, BYD Super DM gives priority to electric power with low fuel dependence, which makes it more environmentally friendly, achieving greater energy efficiency and lower fuel consumption combined with very good performance. Thus, it combines all the advantages of electric motion, that is, it is fast, powerful and efficient, and also provides the “safety” of the gasoline engine. In addition, its modern and refined design along with its overcrowded equipment increases even more Chinese SUV shares, which has all the guarantees to gain a large share of purchasing in our country. As regards dimensions, the length of Seal U DM–i reaches 4,775mm, the width of 1,890mm and the height of 1,670mm, while its wheelbase reaches 2,765mm. Seal U DM–i stands out for its elegant figure, its luxurious aura and its intense edges, always in harmony with the rest of the Seal family. More specifically, BYD Seal U DM-i, like the purely electric member of the Seal family, is characterized by the “X” shape on the front, which is highlighted by the rounded and curved design. U-shaped headlamps highlight the hood, creating a separate identity exclusively for the Ocean Series, while double lamps enhance its appearance. The harmonic proportions continue on the side with the dynamic upper line extending from the headlamps to the rear lights. The 19 inch aluminum rims with polished black rays and corresponding shiny finish literally adorn the profile of BYD Seal U DM–i. The design of the back enhances the feeling of width and complements the curved aesthetic approach of the front. The rear bumper is highlighted by black and silver details, while the design of the transparent rear lamp draws inspiration from the water drops, referring to the company’s design identity “Ocean Aesthetics”. Premium minimal interior Corresponding image, modern design and luxurious aura are also found inside. The digital element prevails, minimalistic elegance, as well as spaciousness and comfort. High-level materials, soft textured surfaces, the very good finish suggests an excellent result, which is immediately understood. The “Legacy Gearshift Panel” includes an elegant, crystal relationship change selector and is inspired by the ocean, giving its own tasteful note. The seats, as well as parts of the dashboard, panels, doors, and central console, have a vegan leather lining, demonstrating the ecological mood of the brand. They are comfortable and comfortable, while they have standard electric regulation of multiple directions, heating and ventilation. The two large digital screens dominate the interior and testify to BYD’s philosophy that focuses on high technology. At the same time, they contribute to ergonomics and comfort, providing clear indications and touch function. In fact, BYD’s Intelligent Cockpit System operates through the 15.6 inch characteristic rotating screen, which we encounter in BYD models, in which there is the option for horizontal or vertical orientation, while various information useful for the driver is shown on the 12.3 inch LCD instrument panel. In addition, the Chinese premium SUV offers smart connectivity, information and entertainment, even from a distance through the BYD app for smartphone. Providing an excellent and personalized connected experience, Intelligent Cockpit System also offers 4G connection, integrated Spotify and HERE navigation, smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay and smart voice control that can be activated by the voice command “Hi BYD”. The system uses Over-The-Air (OTA) updates to remain fully updated. Regarding connectivity, BYD Seal U DM–i offers remote multi-function control of the vehicle through BYD application for smartphone or other mobile device. For example, you can lock and unlock doors, close open windows and handle air conditioning, heating/airing of seats, flash and horn. You can also check the time left to complete battery charge and autonomy. It is worth noting that with your smartphone, you can even unlock and start the car with key function through NFC technology. On the functionality track, the new BYD Seal U DM-I has much to say. Various storage spaces useful for smaller or larger objects, two drinking glasses on the central console, four USB ports and the possibility of simultaneously charging two smartphones wirelessly. Note that in areas where no plug is available, BYD Seal battery U DM-i supports charging V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), allowing the car to be used as a portable power supply to operate electrical devices. At the same time, the panoramic electric, sliding, sunroof brings plenty of light and breeze to the cabin, while the PM2.5 cab particle filter, including a air purification system in the top version, complement the excellent atmosphere. Spatially, BYD Seal U DM-i can easily carry four adults and with a relative restriction of five. Due to the 2.765mm wheelbase and flat floor design, there is enough space for the legs of rear passengers. The luggage space is 425lt, while it can be increased to 1,440lt, as long as the rear seat can be folded to a ratio of 60/40. Engines As we have already said, advanced Super DM technology (Dual Mode) gives priority to electric power and makes Seal U DM-i stand out on European soil. Seal U DM-i is available in two editions, Design and Boost. The four-wheeled Design version features two 204PS (150 kW) electric motors for the front and 164PS (120kW) for the rear engine, as well as a “Blade Battery” capacity 18.3kWh, which is supported by the 1.5lt four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine, advanced by BYD itself. This engine delivers 131PS (96kW) and works with the two electric motors. The total maximum power is 324PS (238 kW) and the maximum torque 550Nm. The Boost version is an adjunct and is offered with an atmospheric gasoline engine called “Xiaoyun” with a capacity of 1,5lt, which works in the Atkinson cycle and delivers 98PS (72kW), while working with an electric motor of 198PS (145kW), which is installed under the front hood. The Boost version features the “Blade Battery” of BYD capacity 18.3kWh, just like the Design version. The total power of the system for the Boost version is 218PS (160 kW), while the torque reaches 300Nm. All versions of BYD SEAL U DM-i offer 3-phase AC charging at 11 kW and DC at 18 kW, while charging time at DC speed charger (30-80%) is 35 minutes. The Boost version is also available with a larger battery capacity of 26.6 kWh. In addition, BYD Seal U DM-i has two driving profiles in both the Design and Boost version. Thus, in the program “EV only mode” there is the possibility of purely electric motion for 70 or 80km autonomy for normal daily movements or driving in the city, while in the program “HEV” the vehicle mainly uses the power provided by the battery. However, in this case, the gasoline engine gives additional power to the wheels only when accelerating, thus supporting the battery. Seal U DM-i alternates smoothly between different functions, giving the feeling of a purely electric car thanks to its innovative technologies. The important thing is that drivers will not worry about autonomy or charging modes, since the engine charges the battery between 25% and 70% (the range is regulated), so that the electrical function is always available, while the battery is also charged with energy recovery during the braking process. On the road During our short contact with the four-wheeled version of BYD Seal U DM–i on the way to Sounio, we immediately found the excellent level of comfort, but also the feeling that you are behind the wheel of a purely electric SUV rather than a Plug-in hybrid, thanks to BYD Super DM technology that gives priority to electric power with the fuel mainly having a supporting role, as mentioned above. This brings with it the benefits of electric motion, that is, silent-with excellent levels of NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harness), fast, strong and of course efficient. BYD Seal U DM–i betrays us for comfortable trips, while the suspension with soft adjustment and multiple links back gives “veloud” passages, after absorbing any mischiefs of the pavement. At a rapid pace, body inclinations make their appearance, but BYD Seal U DM–i came not to promise a sports character, but to guarantee for restful, comfortable and quality travel. Security BYD sets high standards in the areas of passive and active security. Therefore, BYD Seal U DM-i has evolved to be one of the safest electrically powered family SUVs of its category. Thus, in addition to the extensive use of high resistance steel and an extremely powerful panel with cellular structure to protect the battery, BYD Seal U DM-i offers, in addition, a robust frame, front suspension with MacPherson knees and rear multi-link suspension. To monitor traffic, warn the driver or even intervene to prevent a car accident, BYD Seal U DM-i is standard equipped with an extended range of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that use five radars and a central camera. Among others are: Front Conflict Warning, Automatic Emergency Brake, Custom Cruise Control, Rear Conflict Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, Strip Change Assistance, Smart Speed Limit Control, Blind Point Detection System and more. The Design version also features Head Up Display. During night driving, we encounter full-LED lighting technology for better visibility, including helping large ladder lights and custom headlamps belonging to the basic equipment. To help the driver perform maneuvers safely, a system of cameras provides 360 degree regional visibility on the main screen, even above and around the car with the help of an animationd car. By smartly combining the images from multiple wide cameras, it seems like you’re watching from a short distance the maneuvers that you’re doing with the car. Seal U DM-i has been assessed with the highest distinction of 5 stars in impact tests carried out by the independent Euro NCAP organisation. Prices and publications Orders of BYD Seal U DM-i Boost and Design have already started, while deliveries start directly in our country. The price in the Boost version starts at 38,900 euros, while the four-wheeled Design version, which belongs to the top of the range, starts at 46,500 euros. Note that both publications have a pre-tax price below 40,000 euros, with a clear benefit for the corporate user. Seal U DM-i is available in five colors: Delan Black, Time Grey, Snow White, blue Tian Qing and Boundless Cloud, while for the interior there are two configurations, shades in seat and door linings in black or black/brown. Finally, BYD Seal U DM-i is offered standard with a full manufacturer guarantee lasting 6 years or 150,000km, a guarantee of 8 years or 200,000km for at least 70% of the original battery capacity, as well as a guarantee of 8 years or 150,000km for the electric motor.