This is a full-on software enhancement designed to elevate the Seal experience, from intelligent navigation tweaks to in-car gaming and even voice assistant upgrades for Southeast Asia’s multi-lingual charm.

Navigation System That Thinks Ahead

Long-distance EV drivers, rejoice. The OTA brings a new EV Trip Charging Planner to your navigation system. It estimates your remaining charge, plots dynamic charging stops, and ensures you’re never caught short, especially helpful if you’re crossing borders or heading into less urban areas.

You can even customise how conservative or adventurous it gets with your remaining battery margin.

New Features

• A customisable bottom navigation bar now lets you arrange your most-used controls like your personal desktop.
• Lane Departure Assist and Auto Power On/Off can now be toggled directly from the convenience bar.
• You can now adjust your vehicle’s prompt tone across three levels of volume.
• The Hi BYD voice assistant has learned a few new languages, including Malaysian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and Indian-English, for drivers across the region.
• New apps can now be accessed – YouTube, Zoom, Calm Radio.

BYD Arcade

The BYD Arcade app brings a suite of mini-games right to your infotainment screen. From puzzles like Black Hole to casual time-wasters like Packa Bunchas, it’s the kind of thoughtful addition to keep you entertained while you charge.

Auto Power Modes

Imagine a car that powers on the moment you open the door and starts rolling the minute you brake and shift to drive. That’s what the new Auto Power On/Off feature does. And when you leave? Just lock it, and it shuts down for you. No buttons, no fuss.

So if you’re a BYD Seal owner, consider this your digital pit stop.

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The BYD Seal has always been a contender in the electric vehicle market, but with the latest updates, it’s bound to turn even more heads—particularly with the enticing Category A COE that makes the Seal Dynamic more attainable than ever.

Smooth Sailing on Rough Roads

The first thing that strikes you is its cushy and soft ride. It’s almost as if the car floats above the imperfections of our ever-evolving cityscape. “How smooth,” remarked my wife as we glided effortlessly through a road that was more patchwork than pavement along Upper Paya Lebar.

With its impressive suspension and swift acceleration, the Seal manages to transform everyday driving into a serene journey; it really is that good. Being a low-noise EV always helps too.

Look and Feel

It’s not just about how it feels but also how it looks. The Seal is a head-turner, drawing attention like pricier sports cars do. Porsche will hate me for saying this, but the ‘mini-Taycan’ boasts a low-slung stance with steeply-raked A-pillars and a design that manages to be muscular without being overtly aggressive.

Features like pop-out door handles and LED lights that round out its modern aesthetic definitely make it a nice car to look at. Perhaps they could have done without the fins at the bottom of the side skirts, and the rear diffusers seem a bit much too. Other than that, to me, it looks better than the Tesla Model 3.

Interior and Features: Where Comfort Meets Tech

Inside, the Seal Dynamic doesn’t skimp on luxuries. It retains the sports seats and large screens (a 10.25-inch instrument panel and a whopping 15.6-inch Intelligent Rotating Touchscreen Display) found in its higher-end siblings. This setup looks futuristic and is highly functional, allowing for both landscape and portrait orientations with a simple touch of a button.

For tech lovers, an integrated wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay make connectivity seamless and straightforward, and let’s not forget the Karaoke function—an absolute delight for those long drives where entertainment is key. We sang to quite a few tunes at our carpark, all with the guilt of polluting the air.

Performance That Fits

While it might not match a sportscar in raw power, the Seal Dynamic is no slouch. It’s equipped with 134bhp and a healthy 310Nm of torque, ensuring that it feels lively from a standstill.

The 0-100km/h in 10 seconds might not set your pulse racing, but it’s more than adequate for city driving and zippy enough for quick overtakes and getting you out of busy traffic when you need to slot into small gaps (yes, I’m one of those).

Drawbacks? Few, But Noteworthy

However, it’s not all sunshine and smooth rides. In its quest for comfort, the Seal may feel too pliant for those who prefer a firmer ride. You never feel racecar-confident when piloting it through a series of corners, especially since it also runs on comfort-based tyres.

Additionally, the steering could offer more feedback to satisfy driving enthusiasts who crave a more engaging experience. But then again, the car wasn’t made for that kind of driving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still deciding whether to join the EV bandwagon with BYD, the Seal Dynamic might just sway you. It’s a well-rounded, rear-wheel-drive sedan that packs enough features, technology, and aesthetic appeal to justify its price tag of under $200,000.

[ Fun fact: did you know that the BYD logo upside down, spells “che” – which is hanyu pinyin for “car” in Mandarin? ]

Technical Specifications

BYD Seal Dynamic 61.4kWh

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
Power: 135 bhp
Torque: 310 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 10 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Battery Capacity: 61.4 kWh
Drive Range: 460 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 6.5 km/kWh (claimed)
Price: S$196,888 (accurate and time of publishing)
Contact: BYD Singapore

Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@carboy_365)

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The BYD Seal launched with much fanfare last September, and now it is back, with a Cat A COE friendly demeanour. Dubbed the BYD Seal Dynamic 100kW, it was launched next to BYD’s own automotive lifestyle concept store, BYD by SevenDaze.

This variant will be replacing the original Dynamic variant, which also means that every BYD passenger-car model in Singapore can now be snagged with a Cat A COE.

The only significant change from the Cat B Seals is the power. The new BYD Seal Dynamic 100kW features a single motor that sends 100kW (134bhp) to the rear wheels. If you’re doing the math at home, it is 50kW (67bhp) less than its predecessor.

This translates to a century sprint of 10 seconds flat, compared to the previous 7.5 seconds. At least the torque figure remains the same at 310Nm.

Otherwise, it’s all familiar territory. This Seal still boasts the same 61.44kWh battery, offering up to 460km of range and supporting quick charging. With a 110kW DC charger, you can juice up from 30% to 80% in just 32 minutes.

In terms of features, this variant continues to impress with its generosity. The 15.6-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen and the 10.25-inch digital driver’s display are still here, as are the ventilated front seats with electronic adjustment.

Safety is ensured with a full suite of driver assistance features, a nine-airbag system, and a panoramic glass roof. Plus, its operating system supports over-the-air updates, keeping your car’s tech up to date.

The launch also marked the start of the mega ‘BYD 100 Hour Sale’ campaign, offering limited-time deals across all models with discounts and benefits worth up to $20,000.

Snap up a Seal Dynamic 100kW, and you automatically enter a sure-win lucky draw offering discounts of up to $33,000. The earlier you buy, the more chances you get to win.

At the event, Mr James Ng, Managing Director of BYD Singapore and the Philippines, highlighted the growing enthusiasm for electric vehicles in Singapore and teased the launch of three to four new models in the coming months.

This includes the anticipated arrival of BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Denza, by Q4 2024.

Ms Adelene Tan, Sales and Marketing Director at Vantage Automotive Limited, expressed excitement about the new variant, revealing that customer demand for a Category A-friendly Seal had been strong since its initial launch. “We listened hard and worked really hard to make this new variant possible,” she said.

Currently, BYD holds the title of Singapore’s bestselling brand, with the Atto 3 reigning as the bestselling model of 2024, based on LTA’s latest figures for authorised dealer car registrations.

The BYD Seal Dynamic 100kW is now available in Singapore, with prices starting from $169,888 (including COE). 

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BYD has come a long way, and it is clear to see from the cars it offers. The Seal is the Chinese firm’s latest creation to make it onto our shores. It comes hotly after the extremely successful Atto 3 SUV and the adorable Dolphin hatchback.

Now, we get a sports saloon that might not prove the biggest seller of the trio, but which adds more glamour and versatility to the BYD range. I got the keys to the Performance dual-motor monster for a few days, and I really, really adore it.

Sculpted Sophistication 

While “Seal” might evoke images of aquatic charm, this sedan is anything but cute. It’s a paradigm of sleek and stylish executive prowess, injecting much-needed allure into BYD’s lineup. It’s a silhouette that echoes the whispers of the Tesla Model 3 but with a distinctive flair that’s uniquely Seal.

As you lay eyes on the Seal, its four-door coupe shape is pinched at the front, crafting a sharp and striking face. BYD ingeniously incorporated an ‘X-shaped’ front end; highlighted by searing-shaped headlights and daytime running lights, forming an aesthetic ‘X’ when viewed head-on. A trait that distinguishes itself amidst the sea of conventional EVs.

Venturing to the sides, a characteristic shoulder line takes centre stage, starting from the front and gracefully connecting to dot-matrix taillights that span the entire width of the car. Along the way, this line accentuates the wide rear arches, culminating in a sculpted body that’s as much a work of art as it is car.

Even the doors of the Seal are a testament to design ingenuity. Far from being simple flat pieces of stamped metal, they boast an accent line just below the door handles, working in harmony with the crease on the lower part. The result? A car that looks like it’s in perpetual motion, even when parked.

Future Focused

Steping into the sanctum of the BYD Seal, its interior is a tale of two halves – a saga of technological sophistication interwoven with tactile opulence. The quality exudes strength, a harmonious blend of leather, suede, and ambient lighting setting an ambience that’s premium. The crystal-effect gear selector emerges as a standout feature, adding a touch of elegance to the Seal’s cockpit.

The absence of paddle shifters means brake regen settings are tucked away in the touchscreen. The touchscreen itself, while gosh darn huge and a technological marvel, takes some acclimatisation to get used to. Rotating it through 90 degrees is a neat trick, catering to diverse preferences, but its 15.6-inch size demands a bit more attention than desired when on the move.

The auto lights too are a little finicky – as they flicker on through tunnels or dense foliage, the touchscreen’s dimming feature does become a little annoying after a while.

Instead of one, you get two wireless charging trays for multiple devices. However, any slight shift of the phones due to acceleration or cornering triggers a ‘charging active’ alert that, unfortunately again, dims the touchscreen.

For you Android boys and girls, Android Auto comes wireless as standard. Apple fans would have to stick to a cabled connection for now; not really an issue though, as the USB faces a convenient cubby space for storing your phone or other valuables.

In terms of spatial dynamics, the Seal plays its cards well. The back seat offers generous room for fully grown occupants, despite a slightly elevated floor. A glass sunroof enhances the overall ambience, and the boot space, with 400 litres in the back and an additional 53 in its frunk, ensures practicality aligns with indulgence.

The boot lid also opens low, which can greatly help the ingress of cargo.

The Speed Of Silence

To keep everything in check, the Seal boasts battery technology that not only lowers its centre of gravity but also achieves a ’50:50 golden axle load ratio.’ In layman’s terms, perfect weight distribution; a crucial factor given the AWD variant’s weighty figure of 2185kg.

Handling becomes an art form for the Seal, gracefully manoeuvring with light, reactive steering and predictable responses. Even without the assistance of a rear-wheel steer, it maintains a focus on comfort and safety. The engineering team emphasises safety as ‘the ultimate luxury’ in an EV, a philosophy that proves handy, especially when navigating torrential rain during my test drive.

The Seal’s surefootedness in wet conditions is commendable, showcasing a traction control system that keeps the power delivery clean and controlled. However, it refrains from delivering great thrills; it navigates corners capably but lacks the fervour that might enthral enthusiasts.

For the pragmatic car buyers it targets, this is perfectly acceptable. Enthusiasts seeking pure unadulterated adrenaline might need to explore alternate avenues.

But, that doesn’t mean the Seal’s party trick – its acceleration – is less than capable. Engage in an acceleration pull, and be prepared for a symphony of profanities from passengers as the Seal propels itself to naughty speeds. The performance, especially in the AWD variant, is undeniably punchy, and easily confirms the century sprint timing lettering pasted on the back of the car.

What it might lack in head-snapping acceleration, it compensates with a controlled and refined burst of speed. This is a welcomed characteristic, sparing occupants from the neck-snapping jolt that some rivals deliver.

The RWD variant, as tested in the Seal’s launch event, proves no slouch either, offering a spirited performance that might make it the preferred choice for those prioritising battery range. Its passive suspension mirrors the comfort of the AWD’s active setup, ensuring a smooth and refined ride.

In terms of refinement, the Seal exudes a library-esque atmosphere, with the only disruption being a low-speed tinkle. At speeds below a certain threshold, the Seal announces its presence with a growing, almost eerie warble or BYD’s distinctive tune. It isn’t the choice for a silent getaway, but at least it warns pedestrians you are wafting past.

As far as active safety on the road is concerned, the BYD Seal introduces a comprehensive suite of it. One might expect these systems to be seamless, but the Seal’s systems do get in the way of driving once in a while. Even after seemingly disabling lane-keep assist, an ’emergency’ lane-keep assist persists, making the disengagement process more cumbersome.

Regulations dictate that these safety features remain active by default upon each ignition start, a practice that can be irksome for those who prefer a more hands-on approach. It’s not an issue in isolation; rather, it adds to a handful of irritants that more seasoned rivals seem to have avoided.

Despite these minor qualms, some electronic helpers, when implemented well, prove invaluable. Features like parking sensors, reverse cameras and blind-spot monitoring have become essentials, and the Seal’s inclusion of these elements is a commendable step towards enhanced safety.

Charging is also a breeze, with the Seal being able to rapidly charge at up to 150kW with a suitable DC charger. Consumption is decent for what you typically get in a dual-motor EV; about 24kWh/100km, which equates to 4.1km/kWh.

A True Head Turner

In the grand tapestry of EV saloons, the BYD Seal emerges as a solid contender. While it might not boast the charismatic charm to instantly win hearts, it certainly is able to turn heads everywhere you drive.

The Tesla Model 3 has asserted its dominance in the market since it was launched, flanked by well-priced alternatives such as the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Polestar 2. The BMW i4 staunchly defends the realm of driving thrills. In this competitive arena, the stakes are high for the Seal. To carve a niche and truly stand out, competitive pricing can become the Seal’s ace.

Some cars you buy with your heart, and some cars you buy with your head. Owning the BYD Seal means you get to fulfil both, a calculated choice driven by practicality and performance.

Technical Specifications

BYD Seal Performance  

Engine: Squirrel Cage Induction Asynchronous Motor & Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Power: 390 kW (523 bhp)
Torque: 670 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed (A)
0-100km/h: 3.8 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180 km/h
Battery Capacity: 82.6 kWh
Drive Range: 520 km (claimed)
Energy Consumption: 5.5 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$257,888 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: BYD Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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The sun rose over the Changi Exhibition Centre in Singapore on a crisp September morning. The air is filled with anticipation as BYD Singapore extended an exclusive invitation to the media for a rendezvous with their latest marvel, the BYD Seal electric sedan.

BYD didn’t just want you to know about their new addition; they wanted you to feel it, taste it, and experience it firsthand. So, they rolled out the red carpet, or rather, the black tarmac, at the Changi Exhibition Centre.

They put them through their paces on two challenging courses: the Handling Course, a mini circuit marked by cones, and the Slalom, Acceleration, and Braking Course. These courses were designed to let us experience the Seal’s prowess.

First impressions? The BYD Seal is very neatly put together: their in-house developed Cell-To-Body Technology seamlessly integrates the Blade Battery into the car’s structure, creating a fortress of rigidity. The result is torsional rigidity that rivals high-end luxury cars. 

And let’s not forget BYD’s intelligent Torque Adaptation Control (iTAC) system; digital wizardry that allocates drive torque to the powered wheels with uncanny precision. You can accelerate out of a turn, and the car responds with silent efficiency, countering understeer, and delivering a razor-sharp response.

Now, let’s talk power. There are 3 variants of the Seal that will be launched on our sunny shores:

But power isn’t just about numbers; it’s about how the rubber meets the road. With double wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, BYD has created a respectable handling machine.

It’s not just about going fast; it’s about feeling connected to the road, and the Seal delivers that in spades.

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that’s nothing short of opulent. A panoramic glass roof, a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment display, power-adjustable and ventilated front seats – it’s a world of luxury that cradles you as you command the road.

And speaking of commanding, the Seal comes equipped with a full suite of driving assist systems, because safety is never an afterthought.

And might I add, the Seal is a head-turner? Its sleek silhouette boasts an ultra-low drag coefficient of just 0.219cd. The front end, a blend of Porsche Taycan and Renault Megane influences, exudes confidence, while the silhouette might remind you of a certain competitor, the Tesla Model 3. It’s a design that flows and captivates, marrying sportiness with sophistication.

As for the price, the BYD Seal Dynamic, Premium, and Performance variants start at $242,888, $252,888, and $284,888 (with Guaranteed COE), respectively.

So, as the sun sets on the Changi Exhibition Centre, we’re left with the promise that the BYD Seal isn’t just an electric sedan; it’s a statement. It’s a promise that the future of driving is here, and it’s electric, elegant, and exhilarating.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Vantage Automotive, the authorised distributor for BYD passenger vehicles in the sunny realm of Singapore, has just dropped a bombshell – the Seal is about to make a splash on September 29, 2023.

Now, let’s talk about this intriguing newcomer. The BYD Seal is an all-electric sedan, and it’s here to shake things up with not one, not two, but three distinct flavours to choose from.

First up, we’ve got the ‘Standard Range Dynamic’, a trim that promises efficiency and versatility galore. Then, there’s the ‘Extended Range Premium’ for those of you who yearn for an extended driving range without sacrificing an ounce of performance. And last but certainly not least, we have the ‘AWD Performance’ variant, tailor-made to send shivers down your spine.

In other corners of the automotive world, the BYD Seal struts its stuff in two enticing versions. You’ve got the single-motor rear-wheel-drive option, delivering a healthy 308hp and 570km of range (WLTP).

The all-wheel-drive variant takes it up a notch, boasting a jaw-dropping 523hp and rocking the century sprint in a mere 3.8 seconds. Now, that’s what we call electric excitement.

The BYD Seal packs an 82.5kWh battery that’s ready to juice up at a max rate of 150kWh. Translation: it goes from 30% to 80% charge in just 26 minutes.

What’s the secret sauce behind this impressive feat, you ask? Well, it’s none other than BYD’s very own Blade Battery. This technological wizardry employs lithium iron phosphate as its cathode material, promising a safety and durability level that leaves conventional lithium-ion batteries in the dust.

The inside is equally impressive, with a centrally mounted 15.6-inch rotating screen waiting to cater to your every whim. The system supports intelligent voice control and seamlessly integrates with your smartphone, whether you’re Team Android or Team Apple.

And, for the fashion-conscious among us, the BYD Seal is available in four stunning exterior colours, all inspired by the depths of the ocean – Aurora White, Cosmos Black, Atlantis Grey, and Arctic Blue.

If you’re the type who likes to be at the forefront of automotive innovation, here’s a juicy tidbit: pre-order your BYD Seal, and you might just score an invite to the car’s grand launch event on September 29, 2023, at the Changi Exhibition Centre. Oh, and there’s more – you could even hop in for a test ride, with a pro driver at the helm.

As for the nitty-gritty specs tailored specifically for the Singaporean market, well, you’ll have to stay tuned because BYD is playing its cards close to the chest on that front for now.

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