New Delhi: BYD India is set to enter the country’s plug-in hybrid vehicle segment with the planned launch of the Seal U SUV later this year, marking a significant expansion of the company’s electrification strategy in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets.
The Indian arm of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD unveiled its Dual Mode Intelligent (DM-i) technology platform and confirmed that the Seal U SUV will be the first model based on the system to be introduced in India. Pricing and detailed specifications are expected to be announced closer to the launch date, The Economic Times reported.
Unlike conventional hybrid vehicles that primarily rely on a petrol engine with battery assistance, BYD’s DM-i platform follows an electric-first approach. Under the system, the vehicle operates mainly on battery power during regular driving, while the petrol engine serves largely as a range extender when additional power or longer driving distances are required.
According to the company, vehicles built on the DM-i platform can deliver a combined driving range of more than 1,200 kilometres using a fully charged battery and a full fuel tank.
The launch comes as BYD looks to strengthen its presence in India’s growing market for electrified vehicles. The company, which has surpassed 14,000 customers in the country, said it continues to see strong interest in electric mobility despite broader market challenges.
BYD India Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business Rajeev Chauhan said the company has observed an increase in customer enquiries following recent fuel price increases. He noted that India recorded its highest monthly electric car sales in May, reaching approximately 25,000 units, and expressed confidence that the shift toward electrification will continue.
The company views plug-in hybrid technology as a transitional solution that can help consumers become more comfortable with electric mobility before moving to fully electric vehicles. Chauhan said the platform combines the benefits of electric driving for daily commutes with the flexibility of a fuel-powered vehicle for longer journeys.
BYD also believes concerns over charging infrastructure are gradually easing, particularly in major cities where charging facilities have become more widely available. While route planning may still be necessary for long-distance highway travel, the company said plug-in hybrid technology helps address range concerns during the transition to full electrification.
The Seal U SUV is expected to be imported into India and will offer customers the ability to complete most daily travel in electric mode if regular charging is available at home or the workplace. According to the company, drivers covering moderate daily distances could operate the vehicle almost entirely on electric power for extended periods.
With the upcoming launch of the Seal U, BYD is positioning plug-in hybrid technology as another step in its broader goal of accelerating vehicle electrification in India while offering consumers greater flexibility and driving range.
