BYD has officially launched its highly anticipated Seal 06 GT, a hot hatch electric vehicle (EV) aimed at younger buyers. The EV, which debuted on October 18th in China, comes with a surprisingly low starting price of RMB 136,800 (around $19,260).

According to BYD, the BYD Seal 06 GT is built on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0 Evo and offers a combination ofimpressive performance and technology. Its dimensions measure 4,630 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,490 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm. 

The Seal 06 GT is available in four trim levels, offering both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. Pricing ranges from RMB 136,800 to RMB 186,800 ($19,260 to $26,300), making it accessible to a wide range of buyers.

The Seal 06 GT provides two battery options: a 59.52 kWh LFP blade battery that delivers a CLTC range of 505 km (around 313 miles), and a larger 72.96 kWh blade battery offering ranges of 550 km (around 341 miles) or 605 km (around 375 miles), depending on the variant. For high-end trims, 800V fast charging allows the battery to recharge from 30% to 80% in just 20 to 22 minutes, ensuring quick and convenient charging on the go.

In terms of performance, the rear-wheel drive (RWD) variant can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, while the all-wheel drive (AWD) version reaches 100 km/h in a rapid 4.9 seconds, due to its 310 kW peak power output. These specifications offer a dynamic driving experience, catering to both efficiency and speed enthusiasts.

In terms of the exterior design, the Seal 06 GT features a sleek, modern design with a low-lying closed grille, narrow headlights, and a distinctive wavy taillight design, reflecting BYD’s Ocean series styling. 

Inside, the EV contains advanced technology, including a 12.8-inch or 15.6-inch rotatable central control screen, a 10.25-inch full LCD instrument panel, and a 12-inch W-HUD (heads-up display). It also incorporates BYD’s DiLink 100 smart cockpit system and the DiPilot 5 intelligent driving assistance system, which provides L2 autonomous driving capabilities for enhanced safety and convenience.

BYD is marketing the Seal 06 GT as the “young people’s first GT,” positioning it as an affordable entry into the performance EV market. This launch follows the success of the original Seal fastback sedan and is part of BYD’s expanding “Ocean” range of EVs.

While the launch is currently focused on the Chinese market, there’s speculation about potential expansion into European markets. BYD has been actively expanding its presence in Europe, including plans for a production facility in Hungary.

The Seal 06 GT’s aggressive pricing strategy and focus on younger consumers could potentially disrupt the electric hot hatch market. It demonstrates BYD’s commitment to making performance EVs more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.

Read More: BYD Marks Two Years Of Rapid Growth In Europe With SEALION 7 Debut

As the EV market continues to evolve, the Seal 06 GT represents a significant step in bringing sporty, affordable EV options to buyers, potentially challenging established automakers in this growing segment.

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