BYD Sealion 08 Opens Pre-orders: Plug-in Hybrid from ¥230,000, Supports Fast Charging and Rear-wheel Steering

BYD's all-new flagship mid-to-large SUV — the Sealion 08 (Sealion 08) — has recently launched blind pre-orders in the Chinese market. As a major model developed by Ocean Network for young consumers, the vehicle made its global debut at the April 2026 Beijing International Auto Show and is now accepting reservations via BYD's official app. A ¥2,000 RMB deposit is required, fully refundable at any time.

According to information disclosed on BYD's official app, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version — Sealion 08 DM-i — carries a pre-order price range of ¥230,000–¥260,000 RMB (approx. $34,100–$38,600 USD), while the battery electric vehicle (BEV) version — Sealion 08 EV — is priced at ¥250,000–¥280,000 RMB (approx. $37,100–$41,500 USD). Notably, the vehicle remains in the pre-order phase — not yet in production or delivery — and final pricing and specifications are subject to official confirmation.

The Sealion 08 measures 5,115 × 1,999 × 1,800 mm with a 3,030-mm wheelbase, offering both five- and six-seat configurations. Its design carries forward Ocean Network's latest language: semi-concealed door handles, split-style headlights, and a full-width taillight — blending futuristic tech aesthetics with dynamic sportiness.

The PHEV variant pairs a 1.5-liter engine (max power: 115 kW) with a front-mounted motor (max power: 200 kW), mated to a 55.84 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade Battery, delivering a CLTC all-electric range of up to 400 km. The high-spec dual-motor AWD version delivers a combined peak output of 400 kW. The BEV version offers two second-generation Blade Battery options — 92.093 kWh and 115.072 kWh — supporting 10%–97% state-of-charge fast charging in just nine minutes. The rear-wheel-drive base model features a single motor producing 320 kW; the long-range variant outputs 370 kW; and the top-tier AWD trim delivers a staggering combined 585 kW, with CLTC ranges spanning 710–900 km.

All trims come standard with rear-wheel steering and DiSus-A dual-chamber air suspension, plus the laser radar–equipped DiPilot 5.0 intelligent driving assistance system — enabling urban and highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot).

Data shows BYD delivered 411,072 vehicles globally in July 2026 — a 20.5% year-on-year increase — but domestic China deliveries totaled 172,449 units, down 30.9% YoY. Industry analysts suggest that the rapid rollout of new models and product-line transitions may be temporarily affecting delivery timelines.