BYD has filed certification documents in China for a substantially revised version of its Sealion 05 DM plug-in hybrid, revealing updated exterior styling and the addition of a larger battery option that extends the model’s pure-electric driving range.
The regulatory filing shows the updated Sealion 05 DM adopts design elements introduced earlier on the Sealion 05 EV, a compact battery-electric SUV launched in China in March 2025. The revisions indicate BYD is aligning the styling of its plug-in hybrid and electric variants more closely under a unified design language.
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Exterior changes include a redesigned front end with a full-width LED light bar, a revised bumper, and semi-hidden door handles along the sides. At the rear, the model features reworked taillights, an updated bumper design and a reshaped roof spoiler. These updates visually distinguish the new Sealion 05 DM from previous versions while bringing it in line with the Sealion 05 EV.
According to the filing, the updated Sealion 05 DM measures 4,620 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width and 1,630 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,770 mm. By comparison, the Sealion 05 EV is shorter at 4,520 mm with a 2,720 mm wheelbase, reflecting differences in body design and platform layout between the hybrid and fully electric models.
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The certification documents also list a range of optional features, including laser radar, front radar sensors, upgraded exterior mirrors, silver window trim, body-colour side trim, a panoramic roof with a luggage rack, and black five-spoke alloy wheels. These options suggest the updated model will support advanced driver-assistance features and a higher level of customization.
Powertrain specifications remain broadly consistent with the existing Sealion 05 DM-i. The model uses a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 74 kW, paired with an electric motor rated at up to 120 kW. The integrated plug-in hybrid system continues to underpin the vehicle.
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The key mechanical update is the introduction of a larger battery option supplied by BYD unit Fudi. Buyers will be able to choose between an 18.3 kWh battery and a new 26.6 kWh pack. Certification data show the smaller battery delivers a pure-electric range of about 102 km, while the larger battery increases electric-only range to between 151 km and 155 km under China’s testing standards.
The expanded battery capacity represents a notable improvement over earlier versions of the Sealion 05 DM and reflects BYD’s broader strategy of increasing electric-only capability in its plug-in hybrid lineup. Pricing and a launch timeline for the updated model were not disclosed in the certification filing.
