BYD, China’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is accelerating its footprint in South Africa with the launch of the Sealion 5, a new plug-in hybrid SUV. The announcement follows the company’s recent pledge to roll out a nationwide high-speed EV charging network, underscoring BYD’s growing investment in sustainable mobility across the region.
A New Player in the PHEV Market
The Sealion 5 combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor through BYD’s advanced DM-i 5.0 hybrid system. It uses the brand’s Blade LFP battery, designed for long-term durability and safety.
Positioned below the Sealion 6 PHEV in global markets, the Sealion 5 delivers an electric-only range of up to 75 km with a 12.9 kWh battery, or 115 km when fitted with an 18.3 kWh extended-range battery (CLTC test cycle).
The model targets drivers seeking electric-first performance for everyday use while maintaining petrol flexibility for longer trips a practical bridge between full EVs and conventional vehicles.
Modern Features and Family-Focused Design
The Sealion 5 caters to families with its panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, wireless charging, and intelligent voice control system. Inside, it offers a spacious cabin, a large infotainment display, and BYD’s full connectivity suite. Selected versions also feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, enabling users to power external devices directly from the car ideal for outdoor or off-grid activities.
Pricing and Launch Timeline
While BYD has not confirmed local pricing, early estimates suggest the Sealion 5 will start below R640,000, making it one of the more accessible plug-in hybrids in its class.
BYD South Africa plans to reveal full specifications and pricing in November, followed by nationwide dealership sales soon after the official launch.
Strengthening South Africa’s EV Charging Network
The Sealion 5’s debut aligns with BYD’s broader strategy to strengthen EV infrastructure in South Africa. Earlier this month, BYD executive vice president Stella Li announced plans to roll out 200–300 fast-charging sites across the country by the end of next year. These will feature 1MW Flash Chargers, designed to deliver ultra-fast charging speeds.
The rollout will start within BYD’s dealership network, expanding later to key highways and urban centers. To enhance reliability, the chargers will draw primarily on grid power, supplemented by solar energy in areas with limited capacity.
