Chinese spy photos suggest BYD’s best selling electric vehicle (EV) in Australia is soon due for an update, though it’s unclear if it’ll be making its way here.
Photos posted online by X user ThinkerCar and by publication CarNewsChina reveal an updated Seal sedan, and while it looks the same as the current model, it’s been equipped with an array of sensors.
The Chinese outlet reports BYD Ocean series general manager Zhang Zhuo announced the updated Seal – set to be renamed to the Seal 07 in China – will be unveiled in early August, later than original reports suggesting it would be announced in July.
According to CarNewsChina, BYD is understood to have postponed the launch to work on the Seal’s “intelligent driving features”, which are expected to address complaints about the current model.
Image credit: CarNewsChina
CarNewsChina reports the Seal 07 will be built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 Evo EV architecture – an evolution of the current model’s underpinnings – which features an 800V high-voltage system for improved motor speed and charging, up from the 400V layout available at present.
It’ll continue to be offered with both rear- and all-wheel drive, with improved outputs on the entry-level single-motor variant.
RWD versions will reportedly be offered with either 170kW or 230kW motors, with top speeds of 220km/h and 240km/h respectively.
They’ll be paired with either 61.44kWh or 80.64kWh ‘Blade’ batteries, offering claimed driving ranges of 510km and 650km respectively on the lenient CLTC test cycle. The 80.64kWh option is down from the 82.5kWh unit in the current Seal.
Photo credit: CarNewsChina
AWD models will maintain the same 390kW/670Nm dual-motor setup as is currently offered, paired with the larger of the two batteries for a CLTC range of 600km
The Seal’s exterior has remained largely the same, as the E-shaped front headlights, sharp cooling vents, and chrome-accent body-width taillight carrying over to the updated model.
CarNewsChina reports changes including a new rear badge, redesigned wheels, and a roof-mounted LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging Sensors) system for advanced “intelligent driving capabilities” on the updated model.
Intelligent driving versions will reportedly feature added cameras, while standard models have the option of body radars, skylights, silver side window trim, and new wheel options.
The updated model will retain the same dimensions, measuring 4800mm long, 1875mm wide, and 1460mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2920mm.
Current Seal 
On the inside, the Seal 07 will reportedly feature updates to the dashboard, centre console, and air vents. There will also be a new sporty steering wheel, a fully digital instrument cluster, a wireless phone charging pad, hidden air vents, and an integrated centre console armrest.
It’ll retain physical buttons on the centre console for commonly used functions, as well as a panoramic sunroof with an electric sunshade.
The Seal is currently sold in Australia in three variants. It ranges in price from $49,888 to $68,748 before on-road costs and primarily competes with the Tesla Model 3.
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