BYD expands its local footprint with Sealion 5

By Tarryn-Leigh Solomons

BYD has introduced its new Super Plug-in Hybrid SUV, the Sealion 5, adding to a model range that has grown quicker than most expected in South Africa. While the launch drew attention to the vehicle itself, much of the discussion centred on the company’s broader plans for the country.

Speaking at the event on Muldersdrift on 4 December, Managing Director Steve Chang highlighted how BYD’s pace of expansion has shifted over the past year.

“We launched five new cars this year alone,” he said. “With today’s model, we now offer eight different vehicles across battery-electric and plug-in hybrid technology in this region. Our focus here is long-term.”

Faster dealership growth and new partnerships

Chang confirmed that BYD has also moved up its dealership expansion timeline. The company initially aimed to reach 35 dealerships by the end of 2026, but that target has now been brought forward to the first quarter of the new year. New partnerships, including financing options with Absa and charging infrastructure collaboration with Eskom, form part of the next phase, which includes the rollout of flash-charging systems from 2026.

A hybrid approach suited to local needs

The Sealion 5 uses BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, which enables electric driving in daily use with support from a combustion engine for longer distances. With South Africa’s energy supply still inconsistent, the hybrid setup is intended to give buyers exposure to electric mobility without full dependency on charging.

The vehicle includes a rotating 12.8-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, voice control and a practical second row. Features such as heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof, and a 360° camera are available across the range. The model also offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, which allows the car to power external devices.

A global operation backing local intent

Chang pointed to BYD’s growth beyond the automotive sector as context for its South African direction.

“BYD started as a battery company 30 years ago,” he said. “We now manufacture new-energy vehicles at scale, with more than 100 000 engineers.”

He noted that the company delivered its 14-millionth vehicle, also a Sealion 5, to the President of Brazil, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, two months ago. BYD now operates across six continents and in more than 100 countries.

“South Africans want efficiency, quality and value without compromising on performance,” says Mark Handley, Commercial Director, BYD Auto South Africa. “The Sealion 5 delivers that balance. It’s built for the realities of our market and shows how new-energy technology can be practical for everyday family life.” says Handley.

Locally, Marketing Director Nomonde Kweyi said BYD is working toward installing 200 to 300 EV chargers nationwide to support both EV and hybrid customers.

Pricing and local line-up

The Sealion 5 is available in two variants:
Sealion 5 Comfort – R499 900
Sealion 5 Dynamic – R569 900
Prices include VAT.

Chang described the pricing as part of the company’s plan to make hybrid technology available to a broader market.

The Sealion 5 joins other BYD models available locally, including the Dolphin Surf, Sealion 6 and 7, Seal and the Shark 6.