Over 1.5 Million sold: BYD Sealion 6 rumoured to end production in China, company responds
Reports circulating online suggest that the Sealion 6 (known as BYD Song Plus in China), which has sold over 1.57 million units globally, will soon end production in China. In response, the company told 21st Century Business Herald that the move reflects a normal product transition, as the recently launched Sealion 06 (a different model sold in China) takes its place in the lineup.
The Song Plus/ Sealion 6 was introduced in 2021 to strengthen BYD’s Ocean Network lineup, which groups models under “ocean” and “digital” naming themes. As of May 2025, Ocean Network’s total cumulative sales reached 4.85 million units, with Song Plus contributing a significant share.
The Sealion 06, launched in July 2025, will serve as the direct successor. It is available as both a plug-in hybrid (DM-i) and a fully electric model (EV). Prices range from 139,800 to 156,800 yuan (19,100–21,400 USD) for the plug-in hybrid and 143,800 to 163,800 yuan (19,700–22,500 USD) for the electric version.
The Sealion 06 is slightly larger than the Song Plus, measuring at 4,810/1,920/1,675 mm with a 2,820 mm wheelbase. The Song Plus EV measures at 4785/1890/1660 mm with a wheelbase of 2765 mm. The Sealion 06 features a 15.6-inch floating touchscreen, front instrument display, and BYD’s DiLink 100 infotainment system. Standard equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a 1.73 m² panoramic roof, and a Dynaudio audio system.
The hybrid version uses BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i powertrain, pairing a 1.5-litre engine with a 160 kW electric motor and a claimed total range of up to 1,670 km. The EV version operates on an 800V platform with a 12-in-1 drive system and supports up to 237 kW charging.
Leaked internal documents suggesting that Song Plus production would end after “material clearance” have fueled speculation. While BYD has not issued a public statement beyond confirming the model transition, the Song Plus remains a strong seller, with 13,098 units sold in August 2025.
Industry analysts note that the change aligns with BYD’s dual-brand structure, separating the “Dynasty” and “Ocean” lineups. The Song Plus nameplate may gradually leave the Chinese market but is expected to continue overseas, where it has become BYD’s top export model with 166,699 units shipped between January and August 2025.
