BYD Cars Philippines, under the stewardship of ACMobility, has officially launched the BYD Sealion 5 DM-i, a subcompact crossover poised to change the electrified vehicle landscape for a new generation of Filipino drivers. Launched last June 20, 2025, the Sealion 5 DM-i enters the competitive market with a compelling blend of advanced hybrid technology, extensive range, and practical features, all wrapped in a package aimed squarely at first-time car buyers and tech-savvy individuals.
With an introductory cash price of ₱1,198,000, the Sealion 5 DM-i is positioned to make advanced electrified mobility more accessible. “The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i delivers exceptional value—combining advanced technology, everyday functionality, and a size advantage that’s perfect for first-time buyers,” said Bob Palanca, Managing Director of BYD Cars Philippines. He emphasized that the vehicle serves as a “gateway” for Filipinos to embrace the company’s vision of a greener Philippines, free from the common concern of range anxiety.
The Tech Behind the Drive: Super DM-i Explained
At the core of the Sealion 5 DM-i is BYD’s proprietary Super DM-i (Dual Mode intelligent) technology. This is not a conventional hybrid system but an “electric-first” powertrain. The system primarily uses its electric motor to drive the wheels, providing the instant torque and silent operation characteristic of an electric vehicle (EV). A high-efficiency 1.5-liter gasoline engine acts mainly as a generator, recharging the battery on the move and providing an additional boost when needed, ensuring a seamless and powerful driving experience.
This innovative setup delivers a combined output of 197 PS and 300 Nm of torque, enabling the crossover to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 8.3 seconds. The powertrain’s true marvel, however, lies in its efficiency and range. It is equipped with a 12.96 kWh BYD Blade Battery, a technology renowned for its safety and durability. This battery allows for a pure electric range of up to 71 kilometers, based on NEDC standards. This is often more than enough to cover daily commutes within Metro Manila or other urban centers without using any gasoline.
For longer journeys, the Super DM-i system shines, offering a total combined range of over 1,000 kilometers on a full tank of fuel and a full battery charge. This capability was put to the test in a recent efficiency run supervised by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP). Racing veterans George and Louis Ramirez drove the Sealion 5 DM-i on a single charge and a full tank across the Luzon Loop, covering a total distance of 1,409.7 kilometers over three days. The vehicle achieved an impressive fuel efficiency of 25.273 km/liter, demonstrating its prowess for out-of-town adventures and long-haul drives.
Practical Innovations for the Filipino Lifestyle
Beyond its powertrain, the Sealion 5 DM-i is equipped with technology designed to benefit the daily lives of its owners. A highlight feature is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which allows the car to function as a mobile power source. With a 3.3 kW output, it can power external appliances and electronic devices, a significant advantage during the Philippines’ frequent power interruptions or for powering equipment on camping trips and other outdoor activities.
The cabin is a modern and comfortable space defined by technology and convenience.
- Command Center: A 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen is the centerpiece of the dashboard, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
- Entertainment on the Go: The infotainment system includes a BYD Store where users can download apps, including the popular Stingray Karaoke, a web browser, and music streaming services, making traffic-laden drives more bearable.
- Modern Conveniences: The vehicle features an NFC card for smart entry, push-start ignition, and multiple USB ports. It also supports BYD Cloud Service for over-the-air updates, ensuring the car’s software remains current.
The Sealion 5 DM-i also boasts a commanding presence with its dimensions (4,738 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, 1,710 mm tall), clean exterior lines, full LED lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Safety is comprehensively addressed with six airbags, ISOFIX anchors, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Hold and Descent Control, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Value Proposition and Market Entry
BYD Cars Philippines has priced the Sealion 5 DM-i competitively at a standard price of ₱1,248,000, with the introductory cash price of ₱1,198,000 and a low down payment option of ₱88,000 making it an attractive proposition. The long-term value is further enhanced by potential fuel and maintenance savings of 20 to 40 percent compared to conventional gasoline cars, with a preventive maintenance schedule of only once per year.
Confidence in the technology is backed by a robust warranty package: 8 years or 160,000 kilometers for the Blade Battery, 8 years or 150,000 kilometers for the electric motor and its control systems, and 6 years or 150,000 kilometers for the vehicle itself.
“With the strength of BYD Super DM-i technology and our growing lineup of electric vehicles, we continue to offer Filipinos a worry-free electric mobility experience for their every need,” stated Adam Hu, BYD Philippines Country Head. The launch of the Sealion 5 DM-i expands BYD’s portfolio, which already includes the Sealion 6 DM-i and the Seal 5 DM-i sedan, reinforcing its position as a global leader in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and its commitment to the Philippine market.
More info about the Sealion 5 DM-i can be found on this link.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
