In Singapore, electric vehicle manufacturer BYD teams up with Sime Motors to introduce their first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
In a significant move for Singapore's electric vehicle market, BYD and Sime Motors, through Vantage Automotive Limited (VAL), have introduced the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i. This compact SUV promises a fuel-efficient design, allowing drivers to travel long distances without frequent refueling.
The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i is BYD's first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the local market. It is equipped with a 1.5-liter Xiaoyun gasoline engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor, providing a combined output of 194 hp and 325 Nm. Other sources suggest a higher combined output of 215 bhp and 300 Nm.
The vehicle uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) with front-wheel drive. It offers three driving modes: ECO, Normal, and Sport. The Sealion 6 DM-i is claimed to offer over 1,000 km of range, making it suitable for long-distance travel.
One of the standout features of the Sealion 6 DM-i is its electric range of up to 80 km (WLTC), making it a suitable choice for daily commutes. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers excellent fuel efficiency, although specific figures are not detailed.
Safety and convenience features include LED headlights, keyless entry and start with NFC card keys, two 15W wireless phone chargers, a PM2.5 filtration system, and advanced driver assistance systems. The interior offers a spacious layout with electrically adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats. It also features a panoramic sunroof.
James Ng, managing director of BYD Singapore and Philippines, stated that the response to BYD's fully electric models has been positive. However, he also mentioned that while some drivers are ready for fully electric vehicles, others still face practical challenges like charging access and range confidence. The Sealion 6 DM-i is designed for customers seeking an electric-first experience with an extended driving range.
The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i is priced at S$212,888 with a guaranteed certificate of entitlement (COE) and is now available at BYD showrooms islandwide. This affordable pricing, under P2,000,000 in the Philippines, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a fuel-efficient SUV.
The launch of the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i marks a significant milestone in Singapore's electric vehicle market, offering a versatile and economical choice for those looking for a blend of performance and fuel efficiency in a compact SUV format. It joins the BYD lineup in Singapore, which includes the Atto 3, Sealion 7, and M6, although specific details about their electric nature or differences were not provided.
The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i, with its advanced technology equipped with a plug-in hybrid system, sets new standards in Singapore's electric vehicle market. Being a fusion of performance and fuel efficiency, it offers an electric range of up to 80 km and a combined output of 194 hp, making it a versatile and economical choice as a compact SUV.
