BYD to launch Sealion 06 PHEV with 175 kW motor, 220 km EV range, LiDAR option in 2026
BYD is preparing to launch an upgraded Sealion 06 DM-i (PHEV) long-range variant in early 2026. The model features a 175 kW peak drive motor, a 1.5 L BYD472QC engine, extended pure-electric range, and an optional LiDAR-assisted God’s Eye C driver-assistance system, reflecting the brand’s expansion of its high-range plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV lineup this year.
The new DM-i variant is registered under model BYD6480AMHEV12, with an official energy label showing a peak drive motor of 175 kW, maximum net power of 70 kW, curb weight of 1930 kg, and a maximum design gross weight of 2385 kg. Pure-electric range is listed as 143 km, which analysts estimate corresponds to approximately 220 km CLTC. Combined fuel consumption is 0.63 L/100 km, combined electric energy consumption is 17.1 kWh/100 km, equivalent oil-electric consumption is 2.62 L/100 km, fuel consumption in charge-depleting mode is 4.6 L/100 km, estimated energy cost is 16.01 yuan per 100 km, and CO₂ emissions are 14.93 g/km. This follows BYD’s early-2026 strategy: the Ocean and Dynasty lineups are launching five 220 km DM PHEV variants, alongside the Song Ultra EV B-segment SUV, expected around March.
Market context
Since its debut, the Sealion 06 has sold over 100,000 units in just three months, making it a notable performer in China’s SUV PHEV segment. Built on BYD’s e-platform 3.0 Evo, the model was originally positioned to succeed the million-unit Song PLUS. Continuous updates have maintained competitiveness, positioning the Sealion 06 as a broadly capable all-rounder within BYD’s lineup.
Powertrain and efficiency
The DM-i PHEV upgrade combines a 175 kW electric motor with the 1.5 L BYD472QC engine to improve hybrid efficiency. Fuel consumption in charge-depleting mode falls to 4.6 L/100 km. Previous Sealion 06 EV models feature a 240 kW motor as standard, according to the 403rd MIIT production announcement, demonstrating BYD’s tiered powertrain approach.
Comparison with Current Sealion 06 DM-i
| Feature | Current Sealion 06 DM-i | Sealion 06 220 km DM-i PHEV (2026) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak electric motor power | 160 kW | 175 kW | +15 kW |
| Engine | 1.5 L BYD472QC | 1.5 L BYD472QC | Same |
| Maximum net power | 65–68 kW | 70 kW | +2–5 kW |
| Curb weight | ~1880–1900 kg | 1930 kg | +30–50 kg |
| Maximum gross weight | Not listed | 2385 kg | N/A |
| Pure electric range (CLTC) | 90–170 km | ~220 km | +50–130 km |
| Combined fuel consumption | 0.65–0.70 L/100 km | 0.63 L/100 km | Slight improvement |
| Combined electric energy consumption | 15–16.4 kWh/100 km | 17.1 kWh/100 km | Slight increase |
| Fuel consumption in CD mode | 4.8–5.0 L/100 km | 4.6 L/100 km | Improved |
| Driver-assist | DiPilot standard | God’s Eye C + optional LiDAR | Improved |
Driver assistance and optional features
Current DM-i PHEV variants come standard with God’s Eye C, BYD’s advanced driver-assist system, with LiDAR available as an optional upgrade. This configuration enhances perception and semi-autonomous functionality in urban and suburban environments.
Range and usability
The upgraded DM-i PHEV variant achieves approximately 220 km of CLTC pure-electric range, slightly improving over prior models and enabling practical week-long use between charges. The projected price increase is modest, less than 5,000 yuan, maintaining a competitive value proposition.
Strategic outlook
The Sealion 06 DM-i PHEV 220 km variant aligns with BYD’s 2026 strategy of extending pure-electric range across its PHEV lineup while balancing cost, efficiency, and optional advanced driver-assist technologies, reinforcing BYD’s leadership in China’s mid-size SUV segment.
