Motors with Joe Rayfus: BYD gets the Seal of approval

The arrival of the BYD Seal U Super Hybrid marks an exciting moment for the Irish motoring landscape. As BYD continues to grow its presence in Ireland, this plug-in hybrid SUV represents the company's first foray into the hybrid segment. Following the success of their electric vehicles, which now hold a top-five position in sales as of September 2024, the Seal U brings a sophisticated blend of efficiency, technology, and practicality to a market that’s increasingly demanding eco-conscious motoring options.

On the short drive of the launch event, the BYD Seal U Super Hybrid instantly strikes as a vehicle designed to bridge the gap between electric and traditional petrol-driven cars. With its 18.3 kWh battery and BYD’s proprietary “Super DM” technology, the Seal U showcases how hybrid systems can still be innovative and more relevant than ever in today’s market. The drivetrain of the Seal U prioritises electric power, only switching to fuel when necessary. For the typical Irish commuter, this makes it an attractive proposition, particularly with its pure-electric range of up to 80km — enough for most daily drives around urban areas without touching the fuel tank.

The Seal U’s performance is where it truly starts to impress. Powered by a 1.5-litre Xiaoyun petrol engine and a dual-motor system, it combines a smooth driving experience with efficiency. On electric mode, the vehicle is whisper-quiet, with a seamless transition to hybrid mode when the battery depletes. On the test drive, the vehicle's quiet cabin was a notable highlight, with very little road or engine noise penetrating the interior, even when cruising at higher speeds.

Acceleration is respectable, too. The Seal U’s all-wheel-drive system allows for a swift 0-100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle of its size. This makes motorway merges and overtaking comfortable and confident, without the sluggish, lagging response associated with some hybrids. While the short drive didn’t allow for extensive testing of its long-range capabilities, the quoted combined range of up to 1,080 km is notable. For those planning longer journeys, this figure gives confidence, minimizing the anxiety that can sometimes accompany plug-in hybrids with smaller batteries.

BYD has continued its distinctive "Ocean" design theme for the Seal U. The exterior is aerodynamic yet stylish, with sleek lines and 19-inch wheels that add to its road presence without being too bold. Full-width taillights and strong front-end detailing give it a modern appearance, though it doesn’t stray far from the familiar SUV silhouette. The Seal U is available in four colour options.

Step inside, and the oceanic theme continues. The gear lever and buttons have a crystal-like appearance. The dashboard is dominated by a large, rotatable touchscreen that controls the car’s infotainment and connectivity systems. Navigation, apps, and 4G connectivity come as standard, and the voice control system is responsive, making it easy to adjust settings without taking your hands off the wheel.

There’s also a focus on practicality and comfort. The centre console features a double-layer storage compartment, and passengers benefit from generous legroom thanks to a flat floor. Even the stocky build of my 6-foot frame had loads of space behind the driver- seat. The 425-litre boot space, which expands to 1,440 litres with the seats down, is large enough to handle most family trips or outdoor adventures.

One of the most impressive aspects of the BYD Seal U Super Hybrid is its suite of driver aids and safety features. Standard technologies include Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, all of which contribute to a relaxed and confident driving experience. On the brief test drive, the Seal U handled well, with smooth steering and a comfortable suspension setup that absorbed the road’s imperfections without fuss.

Practicality is a key consideration for the Seal U, and its Vehicle-to-Load technology (V2L) opens up interesting possibilities. Acting as a power bank on wheels, the car can be used to power electrical devices. Whether at home or outdoors, this could be a game-changer for family camping trips or even emergencies.

With a Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating, BYD has not compromised on safety, further reinforcing its family-friendly credentials. And with fuel consumption rated at 6.4 litres per 100 km, the Seal U Super Hybrid offers a level of efficiency that competes well in its segment.

The BYD Seal U Super Hybrid is an impressive addition to the hybrid SUV market in Ireland. Its intelligent use of electric power combined with a petrol engine provides a highly efficient driving experience that will appeal to those looking for a practical yet eco-friendly vehicle.

While more extensive testing would be required to fully assess its long-term capabilities, the initial impressions are positive. It is competitively priced, starting from €42,150, and with BYD’s growing reputation in Ireland, it’s likely to attract attention from buyers seeking a balance between sustainability, technology, and everyday usability.