The new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i has been the subject of many conversations among car buyers since its launch. It’s no surprise, seeing as the strongest selling point BYD Cars Philippines is pushing is that the range-extended electric vehicle can be driven for more than 1,000km on just one full charge and a fully charged battery.
Recently, ACMobility and BYD put that to the test, as it set out on a 1,000km drive with the Sealion 6 DM-i together with members of the media and select influencers. The route? Manila to Ilocos and back on just one full tank and a fully charged battery.
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The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i is a plug-in hybrid EV that uses its 1.5-liter gasoline engine mainly as a range extender. What propels its front wheels is an electric motor churning out 194hp and 325Nm of torque. The battery, meanwhile, enables an electric-only range of 100km on a single charge.
The reason the Sealion 6 DM-i can reach more than a thousand kilometers on a full charge and a full tank of gas is that the PHEV system constantly tries to keep the battery between 20-80% when driving, so in the case of this long drive to Ilocos, the engine keeps topping up the charge the entire trip, using as little fuel as possible and switching between power sources continuously as needed.
Even with multiple people onboard and cargo at the back of each unit, the Sealion 6 was still able to accomplish the roundtrip without having to refuel. And that also included some driving around Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte in the middle of the trip, so that makes this real-world test even more impressive.
“Completing the 1,000-kilometer media drive from Manila to Vigan showcases the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i’s remarkable electric capabilities and extended range,” said BYD Cars Philippines managing director Bob Palanca. “This route demonstrates the vehicle’s long-distance performance, handling, and efficiency, showcasing BYD’s commitment to progressing electric mobility and delivering exceptional driving experiences. The event underscores our dedication to leading the EV market with breakthrough sustainable technologies that benefit the Filipino.”
