BYD’s Seal of approval
The BYD Seal 5 DM-i stands ready for the city and the open road.
Photographs by ELI VILLAGONZALO for the daily tribune
We drove the Seal 5 DM-i from Manila to Cavite to Laguna as we headed off to a golf game. Leaving Manila at 5 a.m., driving to Molino, Cavite, to fetch some friends to join the first VSTECS Golf Cup tournament in Laguna.
Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club was our destination, and it was my first time to play golf there, so I let my friends drive me to the venue. 2 Golf bags fit in the trunk, and the 3rd bag at the back of the driver.
Checking on the dashboard, I have 50 percent battery power and a total of 1110 km range. So, no need to worry as the drive is less than 100 kilometers. It’s already a hot summer morning, and the morning rush is already starting as workers head to the manufacturing plants, and office goers rush to the busy metropolis.
The drive was easy as the Seal 5 DM-i is powered with an electric motor and a gas engine at the same time. Switching from a full EV to HEV is just a click of a button, letting you brave the distance up to 1,100 kilometers total.
Relaxing in the back seat, I have my own air-condition vents and also seatbelts that provide safety along with the ride.
WITH 50 percent battery and 1,115 km of range showing on the dash, the BYD Seal 5 DM-i proves it’s built for long hauls without the stress.
Storage capacity and power
The trunk has a 450L storage capacity, enough to fit 2 full-sized golf bags, a noteworthy feature for golfers. This 4 (to 5) passenger EV can get you to and from any golf course in a breeze with its 8.3 kWh battery that provides 179 PS and 316 Nm of torque. And mind you, the Seal 5 DM-I can get you from A to Z in a jiffy! It drives silently and smoothly, with great handling and response.
Safety features
All the bells and whistles, the Seal 5 DM-I is equipped with a rear-view camera so you can see incoming traffic, and the 4 rear radar sensors send out an alarm when you change lanes or when a fast-approaching vehicle is coming. It also aids you in parking, especially in tight corners or at night.
Interior and accessories
Listening to your favorite radio or TV news station is easy with the latest Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, You can also opt to connect via OTA 4G connectivity or use BYD’s voice command with the 8.8” rotating LCD screen right at the center panel. Navigation is made easy with Google Maps or Waze on the large screen.
