BYD has announced the official launch date for its Sealion 08, a flagship SUV in the Ocean series, set for September 2. The Sealion 08 will be offered in both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) versions, featuring BYD’s latest battery and intelligent driving technologies. The new model aims to deliver extended range and advanced comfort features for the mid-to-large SUV segment.
Design and Dimensions
The Sealion 08 draws design inspiration from the Ocean S concept car, adopting BYD’s ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ styling language. The front end features wave-shaped daytime running lights and vertical split headlights. The SUV measures 5,115 mm (~201 inches) in length, 1,999 mm (~78.7 inches) in width, and 1,800 mm (~70.9 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 3,030 mm (~119.3 inches).
Interior Features
Inside, the Sealion 08 continues the wrap-around cockpit design seen in other Ocean series models. It includes a floating central control screen (estimated at 15.6 inches) and an integrated digital instrument cluster. The second row is equipped with a 21.4-inch ceiling-mounted screen, a 25-speaker Devialet sound system, an onboard refrigerator, a functional control screen, and a small folding table. Official images show a 6-seat layout with zero-gravity seats in the second row, offering ventilation, heating, and massage functions. A 5-seat version will also be available.
Powertrains and Performance
The Sealion 08 is equipped with BYD’s second-generation Blade Battery, flash-charging technology, and the ‘God’s Eye’ 5.0 intelligent driving assistance system. Additional features include Cell-to-Body (CTB) integration, fifth-generation DM hybrid technology, rear-wheel steering, the DiSus-A intelligent body control system, dual-chamber air suspension, and a road preview system.
The PHEV version uses a 1.5T plug-in hybrid system with a maximum engine output of 115 kW (154 hp). It is available in single-motor (200 kW / 268 hp) and dual-motor (front and rear, each 200 kW / 268 hp) configurations. The pure electric range is 275 km to 300 km (~171 to 186 miles) on the WLTC cycle and up to 400 km (~249 miles) on the CLTC cycle.
The BEV version offers three power configurations: single-motor options at 320 kW (430 hp) or 370 kW (496 hp), and a dual-motor setup with a 215 kW (288 hp) front motor and a 370 kW (496 hp) rear motor. Battery options include 92.093 kWh and 115.072 kWh LFP packs, enabling CLTC ranges of 710 km (~441 miles), 800 km (~497 miles), or up to 900 km (~559 miles).
Why this matters
The Sealion 08 introduces BYD’s latest battery and intelligent driving technologies to the mid-to-large SUV segment, offering both PHEV and BEV options with significant electric range. Its combination of advanced comfort features and high-capacity batteries reflects BYD’s continued focus on expanding its Ocean series lineup.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in a large SUV with extended electric range and advanced interior features will have new options to consider when the Sealion 08 launches on September 2. Those seeking either plug-in hybrid flexibility or full battery electric performance can look forward to detailed pricing and specifications at the official launch.
Key Specs
- Launch Date: September 2, 2026
- Versions: PHEV and BEV
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 5,115 mm x 1,999 mm x 1,800 mm (~201 x 78.7 x 70.9 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3,030 mm (~119.3 inches)
- Battery Options (BEV): 92.093 kWh or 115.072 kWh
- Max Range (BEV, CLTC): 900 km (~559 miles)
- Max Power (BEV): 370 kW (496 hp) single motor / 215 kW (288 hp) front + 370 kW (496 hp) rear dual motor
- PHEV Pure Electric Range: 275–300 km (WLTC) (~171–186 miles), up to 400 km (CLTC) (~249 miles)
