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New Delhi: Chinese automotive giant BYD has previewed its newest DM-i Super Plug-in Hybrid technology in India. This will mark the brand’s first step beyond a pure-electric portfolio in the country. The new powertrain is set to make its Indian debut in the BYD Seal U SUV, which is likely to arrive before the end of 2026.

Like most plug-in hybrid systems, BYD’s DM-i setup integrates an internal combustion engine with an electrified drivetrain. However, the system has been engineered with a strong focus on electric driving, allowing the vehicle to operate on battery power for the majority of everyday journeys.

At the centre of the system is a 1.5-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine paired with two electric motors and an 18.3kWh battery pack. BYD claims the hybrid powertrain achieves a thermal efficiency of 43.04 per cent, while fuel consumption is claimed to be at just 4.8 litres per 100km. The electric motors are said to operate at an efficiency of 97.5 per cent, contributing to a total driving range of more than 1,200km on a full tank and charge.

With a fully charged battery, the vehicle can go up to 200km in pure-electric mode. In normal driving situations, driving is handled primarily by the electric motors, with the petrol engine functioning mainly as a generator to recharge the battery. Under higher load conditions, the engine can also directly assist in powering the wheels. 

One of the key highlights of the DM-i system is its ability to seamlessly switch between EV, series-hybrid and parallel-hybrid operating modes without the driver needing to manually change it. The setup also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, which means the powertrain can also power other electrical instruments. 

The Seal U will be the first BYD model in India to feature the DM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain. Known as the Sealion 6 in some international markets, the SUV was previously shown at the Auto Expo 2025.

Positioned in the same size bracket as the Mahindra XEV 9e, the five-seat SUV measures 4,775mm in length, 1,890mm in width and 1,670mm in height, while riding on a 2,765mm wheelbase. Overseas, the Seal U is offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with power outputs reaching up to 323hp and 550 Nm. BYD claims the SUV can travel up to 126km solely on electric power in international specifications. Performance is equally impressive, with the sprint from 0-100kph completed in as little as 5.9 seconds.

By looks, it does look like the Sealion 7 EV that is being sold in India, except that the hybrid will get a functional grille at the front. The SUV continues BYD’s ocean-inspired design language both inside and out. 

Feature highlights include 19-inch alloy wheels, vegan leather upholstery, a premium Infinity audio system, a comprehensive ADAS package, a 360-degree camera system and BYD’s signature 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment display. Seal U is expected to arrive by the end of the year and can be expected at the price range of Rs 45-50 lakh (ex-showroom).