BYD Seal electric sedan has got off to a flying start in Thailand just like its sibling the Atto 3 EV. Launched in 3 trim levels— Dynamic, Premium, and AWD Performance, priced between 1,325,000 baht ($36,200) and 1,599,000 baht ($43,700), the Seal EV sedan received more than 1,104 orders within an hour of its launch. Moreover, the company delivered 39 units to the customers on the opening day.
The Seal is supported by CTB (Cell-To-Body) design, which incorporates the battery into the vehicle’s body to increase torsional rigidity and safety. This architecture is based on the e-Platform 3.0, which also underpins the Atto 3 and Dolphin. In terms of dimensions, the Seal EV sedan measures 4,800/1,875/1,460 mm with a wheelbase of 2,920 mm making it relatively larger than the Tesla Model 3.
Speaking of the variants, the entry-level Dynamic RWD gets a 61.4-kWh LFP Blade battery that powers a single e-motor of 204 hp. It can run up to 510 km on a single charge. Then comes the Premium RWD which is equipped with a larger 82.5-kWh LFP battery pack enabling a 650 km of driving range and a more powerful electric motor of 313 hp. The flagship Performance AWD gets two e-motors of 530 hp and an 82.5-kWh battery resulting in a 580-km of drive range.
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The BYD brand’s authority, combined with the Seal’s relatively low pricing due to government subsidies, is the key to the product’s success in the Thai market. Rever Automotive, BYD’s Thai distributor, is collaborating with a local charging infrastructure provider to add 1,100 charging stations by the end of 2023. This is another contributing factor behind BYD’s rapid success in the Thai market.
In a very short span of time, BYD has become the top-selling NEV brand in Thailand. Its bestselling model is the Atto 3 which sold over 14,000 units in 2023, accounting for almost 33% market share. In July 2023, BYD launched the Dolphin EV hatchback in Thailand as well which has also picked up the sales momentum. The Seal is off to a tremendous start and is anticipated to continue performing well in the Thai market.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com