BYD Seal U electric SUV coming to the UK

The Seal U will rival the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Explorer, and it's based on the SEAL saloon car. Underpinning the Seal U is the same e-platform 3.0 found on the rest of the BYD range. It allows for two battery sizes to be offered - a 71kWh battery and a 87kWh unit. As a battery producer, BYD has its own supply and also has a patented ‘blade’ layout of lithium-iron phosphate (LPF) battery chemistry. The smaller battery should allow for around 261 miles of range, while the larger should return 311 miles. Charging capabilities are yet to be detailed, but the Seal saloon – based on the same e-Platform 3.0 – can replenish its battery at rates up to 150kW. The interior features the same 15.6in rotating infotainment touchscreen as the Seal saloon, as well as a digital instrument display. The Seal U is likely to be priced a slight premium compared with its saloon counterpart, which is expected to arrive at around the £45,000 mark, mirroring the relationship between the rival Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. The SUV is sold in China as the BYD Song Plus Champion Edition, with either a plug-in hybrid or a battery-electric powertrain. Autos & Vehicles