The BYD Sea Lion 06 DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT is a compact SUV produced by the Chinese automaker BYD, entering production in July 2025. Positioned as a key model in BYD’s expanding lineup, the Sea Lion 06 represents the company’s commitment to new energy vehicles (NEVs) and its growing presence in the global automotive market. This particular variant, combining a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an 18.3 kWh battery pack and an electric motor, is designed to offer a balance of electric driving range, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. It falls within the broader Sea Lion 06 family, which aims to provide a modern and technologically advanced SUV experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Sea Lion 06 |
| Generation | Sea Lion 06 |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT |
| Start of production | July, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 18.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (CLTC) | 121 km (75.19 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 218 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | TZ210XYC |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 101 Hp |
| Torque | 126 Nm (92.93 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD476QC |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, i-VVT |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4810 mm (189.37 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Sea Lion 06 DM-i utilizes BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode – intelligent) hybrid technology. This system centers around a 1.5-liter, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine (BYD476QC) producing 101 horsepower and 92.93 lb-ft of torque. The engine primarily functions as a generator to power the electric motor, although it can directly drive the wheels under certain conditions, such as highway cruising. The electric motor, a synchronous unit with a power output of 218 horsepower and 191.77 lb-ft of torque, provides the primary propulsion. A 18.3 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack, located under the floor, provides an all-electric range of 75.19 miles (CLTC standard). The transmission is a single-speed E-CVT (electrically controlled continuously variable transmission), which seamlessly blends the power from the engine and electric motor. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain with intelligent variable valve timing (i-VVT) for improved efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 218 hp combined output of the DM-i system delivers brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.1 seconds. The E-CVT transmission provides smooth and linear acceleration, prioritizing efficiency over sporty responsiveness. In electric mode, the Sea Lion 06 offers near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. When the gasoline engine engages, it does so relatively unobtrusively, minimizing noise and vibration. Compared to potential higher-output gasoline-only versions of the Sea Lion 06, this DM-i variant prioritizes fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. The E-CVT’s gear ratios are optimized for efficiency, potentially resulting in a slightly less engaging driving experience for enthusiasts compared to a traditional multi-gear automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Specific trim levels and standard equipment for the Sea Lion 06 DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh variant will vary depending on the market. However, typical features include a modern infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is likely to be a combination of fabric and synthetic leather, with higher trims offering genuine leather options. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and ventilated front seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Sea Lion 06 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are used on the front wheels, while the rear wheels are equipped with disc brakes. The electric power steering (EPS) system offers light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and stability, rather than sporty handling. Stabilizer bars are included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
As a relatively new model, comprehensive market reception data for the Sea Lion 06 DM-i is still emerging. However, BYD’s reputation for producing high-quality, technologically advanced EVs is expected to contribute to its success. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the Sea Lion 06 DM-i aims to offer a competitive combination of electric range, fuel efficiency (4.6 l/100 km), and performance. The LiFePO4 battery technology is known for its safety and longevity, potentially giving it an edge over competitors using traditional lithium-ion batteries. The DM-i system’s focus on electric driving should result in lower running costs compared to conventional gasoline-powered SUVs.
Legacy
The BYD Sea Lion 06 DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh represents a significant step in BYD’s strategy to become a leading global provider of new energy vehicles. The DM-i powertrain, with its emphasis on efficiency and refinement, is expected to become a mainstay in BYD’s lineup. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be seen, but BYD’s investment in battery technology and its commitment to quality control suggest a positive outlook. In the used car market, this variant is likely to be sought after for its fuel efficiency, electric driving range, and modern features, potentially holding its value well compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
