BYD has unveiled the Sealion 5 in South Africa, bringing the country’s most affordable plug-in hybrid electric vehicle to market at R499 900. The new model moves BYD directly into competition with the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and emphasizes the automaker’s drive to expand its footprint in South Africa’s fast-growing hybrid segment.
At the Johannesburg launch, Steve Chang, BYD South Africa’s Managing Director, explained that the Sealion 5 targets buyers who want hybrid efficiency without premium pricing. He added that more South Africans are shifting away from traditional petrol platforms as interest in advanced drivetrain technologies grows.
Powertrain, Battery Technology and V2L Capability
South Africa will receive one version: a 12kWh PHEV fitted with BYD’s Blade battery, DM-i hybrid system, Super e-Platform and cell-to-body construction. The model also uses an NCM lithium battery and offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, enabling owners to power external devices directly from the car.
The Sealion 5 delivers 145kW through a single electric motor. BYD reports 1.2l/100km in mixed driving, while real-world fuel use without a charged battery ranges between 4.9–5.2l/100km, keeping it competitive with Toyota’s benchmark hybrid output.
Feature-Rich Package at a Competitive Price
Even at its sub-R500k price, the Sealion 5 arrives with an extensive list of standard features. According to Mark Handley, BYD South Africa’s commercial director, the vehicle includes:
- Keyless entry
- Electric tailgate
- Roof rails
- Ventilated and heated front seats
- Electrically adjustable front seats
- Wireless charging
- Voice-activated controls
- 360-degree camera system
- 8-inch infotainment display
Every buyer also receives a 3.5kW wallbox charger and a V2L adapter. BYD backs the model with a five-year/100 000km warranty, a four-year/60 000km service plan, and an eight-year/200 000km battery warranty.
Charging Network and Dealership Expansion
BYD continues to build its local ecosystem. The company plans to roll out a national charging network, with the first site scheduled to go live in the third quarter of 2026. BYD expects to install 200–300 charging locations and meets weekly with Eskom to advance the project.
The automaker also aims to expand to 30 dealerships by the end of 2026. Three more PHEV models will join the South African range next year. For now, the Dolphin Surf and Shark 6 bakkie remain BYD’s strongest performers in the local market.
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