On April 20, BYD officially launched the 2026 Sealion 05 DM-i and Sealion 05 EV. The Sealion 05 DM-i is available in five variants, priced between 97,900 and 127,900 RMB ($13,500 – $17,640 USD). The Sealion 05 EV offers three variants, priced from 119,900 to 145,900 RMB ($16,540 – $20,120 USD). The all-electric version boasts a maximum range of 630 km (CLTC) and supports BYD’s flash charging technology, while the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version achieves a staggering combined range of 2,105 km (approx. 1,308 miles). High-end trims come equipped with the DiPilot 100 advanced driving assistance system, with an optional upgrade to the DiPilot 300 LiDAR-based system.
In terms of exterior design, the new models continue the “Ocean Aesthetics” philosophy, utilizing the “Ocean Ripple” concept to create a dynamic yet recognizable look. The front features a closed grille for the EV (and a refined intake for the DM-i) paired with integrated LED light strips and sharp headlights. Vertical air ducts on the lower bumper further enhance the sporty atmosphere. Notably, the Sealion 05 EV also provides a 110L front trunk (frunk) for added utility.
The side profile is sleek and fluid, featuring semi-hidden door handles, blacked-out window trim, and a floating roof design created by the split D-pillar. It sits on 18-inch dual-tone petal-style wheels that add to its modern aesthetic. At the rear, the design is clean and robust, featuring smoked-out full-width LED taillights with the “BYD” logo at the center. The dimensions for the 2026 Sealion 05 are 4620mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1630mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2770mm.
Inside, the cabin adopts a “Rhythmic Ocean” wrap-around design, balancing family comfort with high-tech appeal. It features an 8.8-inch embedded LCD instrument cluster and a signature 12.8 or 15.6-inch adaptive rotating floating touchscreen. Physical buttons are minimized, retaining only core functions in a horizontal layout. The center console includes dual wireless phone charging pads and an electronic shifter. Soft-touch materials, fine stitching, and chrome accents are used throughout the interior to elevate the premium feel.
Regarding driver assistance, the high-spec models feature DiPilot 100, with the DiPilot 300 LiDAR version available as an option. Depending on the configuration, the system offers City Navigation on Autopilot (CNOA), Highway Navigation on Autopilot (HNOA), Automated Parking Assist (APA), Automated Valet Parking (AVP), and Remote Parking Assist (RPA).
Under the hood, the Sealion 05 DM-i is powered by a 1.5L plug-in hybrid system, with the engine producing 74 kW and the electric motor delivering 120 kW. Battery options include 26.628 kWh and 34.275 kWh packs, providing pure electric ranges of 220 km and 305 km, and total combined ranges of 2,020 km and 2,105 km, respectively. The Sealion 05 EV features a single-motor setup with outputs of 200 kW or 240 kW, paired with 57.545 kWh or 68.547 kWh batteries, offering ranges of 540 km and 630 km. High-end models also feature the iTAC 2.0 intelligent torque control system and the DiSus-C intelligent damping body control system.
