BYD Builds 100,000 Crossovers in Just 100 Days: Chinese Automaker Sets New Production Record

Editor’s Note — Nick M. Zuckerman:

China never ceases to impress with its record-breaking pace — after all, the country’s population is more than four times that of the United States. What we’re witnessing now is simple economics: growing demand for BEVs and PHEVs fuels ever-faster production. Assembly lines are running flat out, 24/7. But here’s the question — what happens when the domestic market becomes saturated? The answer is straightforward: overproduction. A classic historical example is the Great Depression of the 1930s, which in many ways began with an overproduction crisis in industry and agriculture. Will China face a similar sectoral recession in the auto industry? Time will tell.

— Nick Zuckerman, Editor

It’s no exaggeration to say that Chinese auto giant BYD has reached a major milestone by producing 100,000 units of the Sealion 06 crossover in only 100 days since its debut. The model has now become BYD’s fastest vehicle to reach the 100,000-production mark across all segments.

Prices for the new Sealion 06 in China range from about $19,600 to $22,900 (¥139,800–¥163,800), depending on trim level. The crossover is available both as a fully electric (BEV) and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

The vehicle measures 189.4 inches long, 75.6 inches wide, and 65.9 inches high, with a wheelbase of 111 inches. Its exterior follows BYD’s signature Ocean design philosophy, featuring a closed-off front end, split-level headlights, a wave-shaped rear light bar, and semi-flush door handles.

The electric versions are built on the BYD e-Platform 3.0 Evo and are offered in 400V and 800V configurations. The base EV is equipped with a 65.28-kWh battery, a 231-hp motor, and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, providing a range of up to 323 miles on the Chinese CLTC cycle.

Higher-end trims with 800V architecture come with a 78.72-kWh battery and a 245-hp motor, offering a range of 376 miles (CLTC). These versions support DC fast charging up to 237 kW, with energy consumption rated at about 12.5 kWh per 62 miles (100 km).

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models feature BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-liter gasoline engine (101 hp, 93 lb-ft) with an electric motor producing 218 hp. Depending on trim, battery capacity ranges from 18.3 to 26.6 kWh, delivering an electric-only range of 75–106 miles and a combined range of up to 1,037 miles with a full tank. The hybrid system also includes BYD’s proprietary “seven-in-one” energy management unit, according to the company.

All Sealion 06 models come standard with the BYD God’s Eye semi-autonomous driving suite, which includes advanced safety and driver-assistance features, seven airbags, and over 30 electronic safety systems.

Inside, buyers get a 15.6-inch “floating” infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof with a moonroof. Cargo capacity reaches 57.5 cubic feet (1,630 liters) with the rear seats folded.

Overall, the Sealion 06’s rapid production ramp-up showcases BYD’s aggressive expansion in the mid-size SUV segment and its strategy to offer affordable electric and hybrid vehicles for a broad market.