BYD Korea is accelerating its push into the domestic market by rolling out a mid-size electric sedan and sport utility vehicle (SUV) in the 40 million won range in quick succession. In particular, the mid-size electric sedan Seal (SEAL) is being revisited for its price, which is up to 10 million won lower than in Australia and Japan.
Recently, BYD Korea launched the mid-size electric SUV Sealion 7. As the world's first model to apply the latest specifications to the domestic market, it was priced at 44.9 million won (after eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits, electric vehicle subsidies not included).
A BYD Korea official said, "Given the characteristics of the Korean market, where SUV demand is high, the Sealion 7 is drawing a lot of interest," adding, "However, as some react with disappointment over the omission of certain options, the previously launched Seal is instead being revisited as a value-for-money car."
BYD Korea launched the mid-size electric sedan Seal in August this year. The domestic price of the Seal Dynamic all-wheel drive (AWD) model was set at 46.9 million won, which is more than up to 10 million won lower than in Australia (61,990 Australian dollars) and Japan (6.05 million yen).
The Seal is an AWD model equipped with dual motors and is evaluated as offering high-performance specifications for its class. The vehicle, fitted with front and rear dual motors producing 160 kilowatts (kW) and 230 kW, delivers a maximum output of 390 kW (530 horsepower). It takes 3.8 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 100 kilometers per hour (zero to 100).
Cell to Body (CTB) technology, which integrates the battery and body, was also applied for the first time. According to BYD, the CTB structure uses the battery not just as an energy source but as a component that reinforces body rigidity, enhancing both driving stability and safety. Space utilization was also improved.
Advanced driver-assistance features are diverse. In addition to a 3D surround-view monitor, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot warning, and a front cross-traffic collision avoidance system all come standard. Premium convenience features such as a heat-blocking panoramic glass roof are also standard.