ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE BYD SEAL

Each time an EV arrives for me to test, I have the same concerns, range anxiety and charge anxiety. However to be fair the majority of manufacturers now offer models with improved range. I can recall when I tested the first EVs some offered ranges in the region of 193km (120m) which in my opinion classified them as city cars. Charge anxiety is more difficult and it is best to install a home charger; the problem comes when you have to cope with a longish drive and the quest to find charging points enroute which are operational. I can add further news, across Europe EV sales are down with some of the major German brands developing new petrol hybrid engines and several people have informed me of low trade in values for their EV.

Yet another EV recently arrived for me to test and I must admit I was looking forward to getting behind the wheel; this time it was my first experience with an EV from the Chinese manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams). This company is the largest manufacturer of EVs in the world and just one of many brands that are likely to arrive on our shores. The Seal which I tested comes with the choice of two drivetrains AWD or RWD; my test car was AWD with 530PS; good performance with rest to 100kph (62mph) in under four seconds. The RWD version has 313PS and is no slouch either with rest to 100kph (62mph) in under six seconds. The battery capacity for both versions is 82.5kWh and my test resulted in a range of 290miles, which is acceptable. For me the plus point of this BYD is the styling, sports saloon, and it is amongst the best looking EVs currently on our roads.

However I was disappointed with just too much tech on board; I know some will appreciate this. I found it took away from the driving pleasure, a large rotatable screen to the left meant that I had to momentarily take my eyes off the road ahead, not a good idea; in my opinion all driver info should be in a direct line of vision. There is also a 10.25 in LCD panel and what I really did appreciate was the info displayed on the windscreen with an excellent head up display. Full marks re comfort, well-shaped seats not only for the driver but also for all occupants. A saloon will never offer the same level of storage as an SUV and with the Seal, 402 litres in the boot with a further 53 litres under the bonnet and some twenty storage spaces throughout the cabin. Behind the wheel and the Seal is built on the company’s e-Platform 3.0 with an 8 in 1powertrain and it is the first to use cell to body technology which delivers safety, torsional rigidity and driving dynamics. However I did find the ride harsh, like a go kart, this I did not expect. Perhaps a different choice of tyres could assist in improving comfort levels. My test car was fitted with Continentals.

Summing up, BYD has achieved a lot in a relatively short time; it will be interesting to see what the next generation of models they produce will offer. Alas after having driven the Seal I am no nearer to becoming a member of the EV Club.

Ian Lynas