BYD Seal EV Launched at Rs. 41 Lakh: Why it’s better than Hyundai IONIQ 5

BYD has launched the Seal EV in the Indian market at a starting price of Rs. 41 Lakh; Rivals the IONIQ 5 which costs Rs. 45.95 Lakh

The newly launched BYD Seal EV goes up against the likes of Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40 Recharge. It has been priced close to the Hyundai IONIQ 5, giving birth to this unique rivalry. However, it is important to note that both EVs sport different body styles. In addition to this, for people not concerned about body style, the Seal could potentially eat into the sales of Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40. While these topics are better left out for some other day, let’s stick to how the Seal EV is a better value than the Hyundai IONIQ 5.

BYD Seal Launched: Multiple Variants on offer

The IONIQ 5 is getting a better response in India as compared to what was initially anticipated by Hyundai but it is only available in a single variant. On the other hand, BYD is offering 4 variants with 2 battery packs and drivetrain combinations.

BYD Seal Launched: Better Powertrain than IONIQ 5?

The base battery capacity of BYD Seal stands at 61.44 kWh and paired with the RWD configuration, it gets 510 kilometres claimed range. The IONIQ 5 with its RWD drivetrain and 72.6 kWh battery pack gets ARAI claimed figures of over 600 kilometres. In the real world, the IONIQ 5 will deliver anywhere around 500 kilometres or even less. With the BYD’s track record of Blade battery technology, we have seen with the real-world test of Atto3 that it gets very close to the NEDC claimed range. So, it’s very safe to say that even the base spec Seal EV will be at par with the IONIQ 5 in terms of real-world range, let alone the higher spec trims with an 82.56 kWh battery pack.

In terms of power, the base RWD 61.44 kWh equipped Seal puts out 204 bhp and 310 Nm of peak torque as compared to the IONIQ 5’s 217 bhp 350 Nm torque. It gets quite close but BYD has the advantage of better aerodynamics.

BYD Seal EV Launched: Price Comparison with IONIQ 5

The BYD Seal EV starts at Rs. 41 lakh (ex-showroom), a good 5 lakh more affordable price tag than the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The RWD 82.56 kWh Premium variant of the Seal EV is positioned close to IONIQ 5, albeit with a larger battery pack, better range and faster 0-100 kmph sprint timings.

BYD Seal EV Launched: Where it falls short?

The point when you realise that BYD’s limited sales and service network is nowhere close to Hyundai. In addition to this, the trust factor amongst customers takes a long time to build. These are the two factors which BYD needs to work on.

Also Read: Toyota To Launch First EV In India Next Year: Expectations?

Editor-in-Chief