The launch event on 1/12 marks BYD Japan's first plug-in hybrid offering, following the company's initial entry into the Japanese market in 2023 with four electric vehicle models.

The Sealion 6 is a top-selling plug-in hybrid crossover globally, accounting for approximately 30% of PHEV sales in the first 10 months of the year. Within BYD's product portfolio, this model leads global rankings. In Europe, it is sold as the Seal U and was the best-selling plug-in hybrid in June. BYD is also actively promoting PHEV sales in Southeast Asia.

The BYD Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid SUV launched in Japan. Photo: Bez LH.

In Japan, the Sealion 6 competes with both hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs. The Chinese model is priced slightly higher than the standard Toyota Prius PHEV (3,847,300 yen/24,800 USD), but significantly lower than the Toyota Harrier (5,047,300 yen/32,500 USD), Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (5,294,300 yen/34,100 USD), and Toyota RAV4 PHEV (5,660,000 yen/36,400 USD). This pricing strategy reflects BYD's aim to attract customers who prefer hybrids, a segment where the adoption of fully electric vehicles remains limited due to insufficient charging infrastructure.

The SUV offers an electric-only range of approximately 100 km for urban use. A gasoline engine is also available for longer journeys. Fuel consumption is rated at about 4,46 liters/100 km, which is higher than comparable hybrid SUVs. The vehicle is equipped with three millimeter wave radars and high-resolution cameras for its driver assistance functions.

BYD states that the Sealion 6 has been adjusted for the Japanese market, featuring improved rear seat comfort and reduced vibration based on feedback from local users. Black wheels were added to address concerns about dirt. BYD Japan plans to expand its new energy vehicle lineup with additional plug-in hybrid models in the future.

According to the Japan Automobile Importers Association (JAIA), BYD sold 3,298 vehicles in the first 10 months of this year, representing a 64% increase compared to the same period in 2024. However, sales remain lower than leading imported brands such as Mercedes (41,684 vehicles) and Tesla (approximately 9,100 vehicles). The Sealion 6's performance in Japan will be closely monitored as a gauge of BYD's potential for growth in the plug-in hybrid segment.

My Anh (via CarNewsChina)