[Test Drive] "Changing Perceptions of Chinese Cars" BYD Seal Makes Its Mark in the Sedan Market

First BYD Model with Cell-to-Body Technology
Up to 407 km Range on a Single Charge
Early 40 Million Won Price Range... Expected Delivery in August

"You need to be careful with the accelerator pedal."

On July 16, as I got into BYD's electric sedan model 'Seal' at the Yongin Speedway track in Gyeonggi-do, a BYD representative immediately cautioned me. I initially thought it was a safety reminder due to the heavy rain that had started the previous day. However, once I started driving and experienced how the car responded instantly to every press of the pedal, I realized it was more than just a simple warning. I couldn't help but be impressed by BYD's technology, which is now dominating the global electric vehicle market beyond China.

Seal is running on the track at the 'Seal Media Track Day' held by BYD on the 16th at Yongin Speedway in Gyeonggi-do. BYD

The Seal is expected to be delivered to Korean consumers as early as August. The process for calculating eco-friendly subsidies is currently underway. This is BYD's second model to be launched in Korea after the Atto 3. BYD is attracting significant attention in the domestic market by emphasizing its price competitiveness and electric vehicle technology. I took the Seal on both the track and the road to see if this high level of interest would translate into sales.

The Seal measures 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, making it a slightly smaller electric sedan than Hyundai's Ioniq 6 (4,855 mm long, 1,880 mm wide, 1,495 mm high). The exterior incorporates design elements inspired by the ocean. Wave-shaped ripple lamps reminiscent of the sea and rear LED taillights inspired by the horizon give the car a distinctive and three-dimensional appearance.

Built on BYD's 'e-Platform 3.0', the Seal features a low body and streamlined design, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.219 Cd.

Notably, this is the first BYD model to apply 'Cell-to-Body' technology, which not only ensures a low drag coefficient but also provides high torsional rigidity. This technology disperses energy in the event of a collision and reduces noise and vibration (NVH). However, the large triangular headlights give the car a somewhat sharp look, which may divide opinions.

Inside the BYD seal. Photo by Oh Hyungil

The driver's seat is equipped with a 10.25-inch TFT LCD cluster, and the center features a 12.8-inch rotating display. The ability to switch the display between horizontal and vertical orientations was especially eye-catching, but integrating navigation, multimedia, and climate control into one interface seemed inconvenient to operate while driving.

The performance the Seal demonstrated on the track was enough to compensate for several shortcomings. Its instantaneous responsiveness meant that pressing the accelerator firmly quickly pushed the speedometer past 120 km/h. With no engine noise, it was difficult to sense just how quickly the car was accelerating.

The Seal is equipped with two motors of different outputs on the front and rear axles. The front wheels receive 160 kW, while the rear wheels get 230 kW, for a combined maximum output of 390 kW (530 PS). The car can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. In addition, perforated ventilated disc brakes come standard, providing excellent braking performance even on wet roads.

Seal is running on the track at the 'Seal Media Track Day' held by BYD on the 16th at Yongin Speedway in Gyeonggi-do. BYD

However, during road driving, the Cell-to-Body model's stiff undercarriage transmitted every bump directly to the driver, which could be a drawback for consumers who prioritize a smooth ride.

I also tried the back seat, which offered enough space to comfortably accommodate three adult men. The standard panoramic glass roof made the cabin feel open and reduced any sense of confinement.

The Seal is priced at 46.9 million won. With the electric vehicle subsidy, the price is expected to drop to the low 40 million won range. In a market where the Tesla Model 3 and Ioniq 6 are strong performers, the Seal stands out for its cost-effectiveness. Overcoming negative perceptions about "Chinese cars" remains a challenge. However, for those who trust in globally proven technology, the Seal could be an appealing new option.

Seal is running on the track at the 'Seal Media Track Day' held by BYD on the 16th at Yongin Speedway in Gyeonggi-do. BYD