Car Reviewer Taiichi Fujino: BYD Seal 06 Priced at 4 Million JPY

On May 17, Japanese automotive media GOETHE published an article by car reviewer Taiichi Fujino, detailing his impressions from test-driving the BYD Seal 06.

The article states: BYD is expected to surpass Tesla in 2025, becoming the world’s top-selling electric vehicle brand.

The "Seal 06" is the fifth model introduced to the Japanese market and the first plug-in hybrid vehicle. Although a mid-size SUV, the front-wheel-drive variant is priced at an astonishing 3 million JPY, while the four-wheel-drive version comes in at just 4 million JPY.

Although it will take time for BYD to build its reputation in Japan, the company was already the first globally to announce the mass production of a plug-in hybrid vehicle back in 2008. By 2025, hybrid vehicles are projected to account for nearly half of global sales.

The Seal 06 measures 4,775 mm in length × 1,890 mm in width × 1,670 mm in height. Its dimensions are comparable to those of the Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3.

In Japan, the Seal 06 is available in both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. The exterior design draws inspiration from marine life.

Incidentally, BYD's design team is led by German designer Wolfgang Egger, who previously served as Design Director at Alfa Romeo and Audi. This gives the Seal 06 a design language reminiscent of European automobiles. The interior was designed by a former Mercedes-Benz designer, giving it a more global brand feel rather than appearing distinctly Chinese in origin.

The interior features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 15.6-inch high-definition display centered in the dashboard. The latest voice-activated infotainment system is standard across all models, along with full-standard equipment including an Infinity 10-speaker audio system and a power-retractable panoramic sunroof. This test drive featured the front-wheel-drive model.

The powertrain combines a 1.5-liter inline-four engine delivering a maximum output of 72 kW and peak torque of 122 Nm, a motor producing up to 145 kW and 300 Nm of torque, and BYD’s signature 18.3 kWh iron-phosphate battery.

The unique hybrid technology “DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligence)” is a series hybrid system that operates primarily as an electric vehicle in daily driving scenarios.

Under certain conditions—such as highway cruising—it employs an efficient internal combustion engine. With a pure electric range of 100 km, combined fuel economy (WLTC mode) reaches 22.4 km/L, and the total range when fully fueled and charged is up to 1,200 km. The engine has been tuned to suit regular gasoline used in Japan.

Since it is predominantly driven by the electric motor, the driving experience is smooth and quiet. The presence of the internal combustion engine is rarely noticeable within normal speed ranges. However, during aggressive acceleration—such as lane changes on highways—the engine noise may increase slightly, but remains within acceptable limits.

There is nothing to complain about regarding ride comfort. The materials feel premium, and the user interface is intuitive. High-end audio and panoramic roof are standard features, so no optional packages are needed. Still, the price of 3,982,000 JPY is surprisingly low in the Japanese market.

In addition, the vehicle qualifies for a 150,000 JPY CEV subsidy (effective from April 1, 2026 onward), as well as local government incentives—Tokyo’s ZEV subsidy can reach up to 600,000 JPY.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865392021316810/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.