Chinese auto manufacturer BYD has introduced its new plug-in hybrid station wagon, the Seal 06 DM-i, in the domestic market. Priced from 109,800 yuan (around 15,230 dollars), the vehicle is designed for both practicality and efficiency, with a maximum range of 1,243 miles and a fuel consumption rate of 75 mpg.
Station Wagons Make a Comeback in China
Though station wagons are not traditionally popular in China due to the dominance of SUVs, BYD is betting on a change in consumer preference as electric and hybrid vehicles become more mainstream. With a lower stance and sleeker profile, wagons like the Seal 06 DM-i are more efficient than SUVs while offering nearly the same cargo space.
Features and Design
The Seal 06 DM-i provides 670 liters of trunk space, expandable to 1,531 liters (54.1 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded. It supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, enabling the car to act as a power source—ideal for camping or outdoor work. The vehicle is aimed at both Chinese and international buyers, especially in Europe.
Powertrain Options and Performance
BYD offers two hybrid variants:
- Base Model: Combines a 1.5-liter petrol engine with a 161-horsepower electric motor. It delivers 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 8.7 seconds and offers an all-electric range of up to 50 miles, powered by a 10.08 kWh LFP battery. Fuel efficiency is rated around 75 mpg.
- Stronger Hybrid: Uses the same engine with a 215-horsepower electric motor. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds and includes a larger 18.7 kWh battery for an EV-only range of 93 miles. The vehicle consumes slightly more fuel at 55.4 mpg.
Both variants are supported by FinDreams LFP batteries. The larger battery charges from 30 to 80 percent in 25 minutes.
Advanced Safety and Tech Features
BYD equips the Seal 06 DM-i with the DiPilot 100 driver-assistance system, capable of 100 trillion operations per second. This enables highway autopilot functions. The vehicle also features 12 cameras, 5 millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors for comprehensive road monitoring.
With its tech-forward design and long-range efficiency, BYD’s Seal 06 DM-i signals a renewed interest in station wagons, both in China and abroad.
