July 25, 2023News

BYD takes on the Tesla Model Y with the Seal U

With batteries of up to 87 kWh, the newcomer aims to rival the Tesla Model Y, among others

BYD is stepping up its game and strengthening its arguments. The Chinese brand has today confirmed the arrival of its Seal U electric SUV on the European market. Measuring 4.78 m long and 1.89 m wide, the Seal U fits between the Atto 3 and the Tang, the latter of which is only available in Norway. This format will enable it to compete with mid-size electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y.

But unlike the other models in the range, the Seal U’s design is more restrained, without verging on the banal. Flanked by a logically closed grille, its face features hook-shaped headlights topped by slim air intakes. The profile, on the other hand, is more standard, with lines that are unmistakably reminiscent of its European rivals. 19-inch wheels come as standard.

A cabin at odds with BYD standards

BYD has also confirmed that the Seal U will be equipped with a range of driving aids, without going into detail. Despite its size, the Chinese model will remain a strict five-seater, with the seven seats being the preserve of the Tang. On the technical side, the Seal U will be available in two configurations powered by the same 218 PS electric motor. The 71.8 kWh entry-level battery provides a range of 420 km. The 87 kWh battery will extend the range to 500 km.

European debut at the Munich Motor Show

The DC charging power is 140 kW, enabling a 30-80% charge in less than 30 minutes. These characteristics place the Seal U in the lower mid-range of its category. To try and compensate for this, a heat pump and V2L function come as standard. The BYD Seal U will arrive in Europe in October. However, it will be making its debut at the Munich Motor Show in September. Prices will be announced shortly afterwards.

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Thomas Kim

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May 16, 2024

New-Gen Bentley Continental GT Debuts Next Month

It’s been only a few days since Bentley confirmed a few juicy details about what will replace its iconic W12. The Brits have now confirmed the new powertrain’s first project – the fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT. And it isn’t far from shedding its cover, as you can see here. In fact, we’ll get to see it in full next month.

As you’d expect, not much has been unveiled as of now. But we know the “Ultra Performance Hybrid” powerplant will deliver a whopping 782ps of power and a mammoth peak torque of 1,000Nm. Courtesy of the electric motor and a battery to back it up, the new-gen Continental GT will also be capable of travelling 80km with zero local emissions. Another astonishing figure for the brand is a WLTP-certified CO2 figure of less than 50 g/km.

Backing up the new powertrain and its massive power reserves will be an active all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, four-wheel steering, an electronic limited-slip differential, 48V electric active anti-roll control and new dual-valve dampers. Of course, new design and a variety of modern-day creature comforts will also play their part. Put all those facts together, and the takeaway is this: the new-gen Bentley Continental GT will be the most powerful, dynamically capable and sustainable luxury grand tourer in the company’s history.

Exciting times ahead!

May 15, 2024

Icons of Porsche, Middle East’s largest car festival, returns in November 2024

If the 911 is Porsche’s automotive icon, the Icons of Porsche is the brand’s iconic and flagship festival in the Middle East. Since its debut in 2021, the Icons of Porsche festival has already racked up a footfall of over 50,000 fans to celebrate not just the glorious past, dynamic present and exciting future of Porsche but also regional arts, culture and cuisine within the event. And now, the largest car festival of the Middle East returns for the fourth edition at ‘The Slab’ in the Dubai Design District on 23-24 November 2024. The two-day celebration will feature the best of Porsche sports cars, artwork installations, renowned artists and celebrity appearances at ‘The Slab’. Dr. Manfred Bräunl, Chief Executive Officer of Porsche Middle East and Africa, commented, “I cannot wait to announce some of the beautiful cars we have in store that will not only come from local collectors but also from the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Last year’s event overwhelmed us, with over 27,000 visitors and media coming from all over the world to celebrate with us.”