BYD has submitted new certification filings in China for a heavily updated version of the Sealion 05 DM plug-in hybrid, revealing a sharper exterior design and a new, larger battery option that significantly extends its electric-only driving capability. The revised model adopts styling cues first seen on the Sealion 05 EV, the compact electric SUV
The latest Sealion 05 DM moves away from its earlier look with a redesigned front end that now features a full-width LED light bar and a reworked bumper. Along the sides, semi-hidden door handles bring it in line with BYD’s newer design language, while changes at the rear include updated taillights, revised bumper detailing and a reshaped roof spoiler. Together, these updates give the plug-in hybrid a closer visual relationship to its fully electric sibling while clearly setting it apart from the outgoing version.
According to the certification data, the updated Sealion 05 DM measures 4,620 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and 1,630 mm tall, riding on a 2,770 mm wheelbase. This makes it noticeably larger than the Sealion 05 EV, which measures 4,520 mm in length with a 2,720 mm wheelbase, highlighting the structural and platform differences between the electric and plug-in hybrid variants following the redesign.
The filings also reveal a comprehensive list of optional equipment, suggesting a strong focus on technology and customisation. Buyers will be able to specify features such as laser radar, front radar sensors, upgraded exterior mirrors, silver window trim, body-coloured side accents, a panoramic roof with a luggage rack, and even alternative rear-view mirror mounting hardware. A set of black five-spoke alloy wheels will also be offered as an option.
Mechanically, the Sealion 05 DM continues with BYD’s familiar 1.5-litre four-cylinder plug-in hybrid setup. The petrol engine produces 74 kW, while the electric motor delivers up to 120 kW, maintaining the same basic powertrain configuration used in previous Sealion 05 DM-i models. While outright output figures remain unchanged, the focus of the update clearly lies in efficiency and electric usability rather than raw performance.
The biggest upgrade comes in the form of battery options. Alongside the existing 18.3 kWh battery, which supports a pure-electric range of 102 km, BYD has added a new 26.6 kWh battery developed by Fudi. With this larger pack, the Sealion 05 DM is rated for between 151 and 155 km of electric-only driving under China’s official test cycle. This marks a notable improvement over earlier versions and strengthens the model’s position as a plug-in hybrid capable of covering most daily driving on electric power alone.
With its updated design, expanded equipment list and significantly improved electric range, the revised Sealion 05 DM signals BYD’s continued push to blur the gap between plug-in hybrids and full EVs, offering buyers more flexibility without sacrificing modern styling or everyday usability.