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
FeatureCurrent Sealion 06 DM-iSealion 06 220 km DM-i PHEV (2026)ChangePeak electric motor power160 kW175 kW+15 kWEngine1.5 L BYD472QC1.5 L BYD472QCSameMaximum net power65–68 kW70 kW+2–5 kWCurb weight~1880–1900 kg1930 kg+30–50 kgMaximum gross weightNot listed2385 kgN/APure electric range (CLTC)90–170 km~220 km+50–130 kmCombined fuel consumption0.65–0.70 L/100 km0.63 L/100 kmSlight improvementCombined electric energy consumption15–16.4 kWh/100 km17.1 kWh/100 kmSlight increaseFuel consumption in CD mode4.8–5.0 L/100 km4.6 L/100 kmImprovedDriver-assistDiPilot standardGod’s Eye C + optional LiDARImprovedCompiled by CarNewsChina
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.
Official energy label showing a peak drive motor of 175 kW, converted to English by CNC.
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