BYD’s latest offering for the Australian market, the 2024 BYD Sealion 6, is ready to make waves, set to compete with models like the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid EV and MG HS +EV. Formerly known as the Seal U and named the Song Plus in its home market of China, the Sealion 6 represents a new addition to BYD’s ocean-themed lineup, joining the likes of the Sea Lion 07 electric SUV showcased at last year’s Guangzhou motor show.
Scheduled for a comprehensive reveal on May 16, the Sealion 6 launch event promises to introduce BYD’s ‘Super-Hybrid’ technology, the company’s branding for its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) products. Recent filings with the Australian Government confirm the availability of two variants: Dynamic and Premium.
According to the approval documents, the Dynamic variant will be equipped with a 72kW internal combustion engine and a 145kW front-mounted electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 160kW.
On the other hand, the Premium variant will feature a more potent setup, comprising a 96kW internal combustion engine, a 150kW front electric motor, and a 120kW rear electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 238kW. While detailed specifications are yet to be disclosed, global offerings of the Sealion 6 will include a choice between 18.3kWh and 26.6kWh batteries, offering a range of 110km to 150km under the NEDC cycle.
Additionally, an all-electric version of the SUV is slated for release in Europe this year, boasting up to 500 kilometers of driving range on the WLTP cycle thanks to its 87kWh LFP battery pack. While there’s no official confirmation from BYD or its local distributor regarding the Seal U EV’s availability in Australian showrooms, it’s speculated to be positioned above the Atto 3 and positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y.
