Johannesburg, 4 December 2025 | BYD, the world’s leading new-energy technology company, today confirmed retail pricing for the much-anticipated BYD Sealion 5, now officially on sale at BYD Auto South Africa dealerships countrywide. The Super Plug-in Hybrid SUV arrives in two variants and prices:

  • Sealion 5 Comfort: R499,900
  • Sealion 5 Dynamic: R569,900
*Recommended retail price includes VAT

This launch marks the next major step in BYD’s commitment to helping solve South Africa’s energy and mobility challenges through advanced, accessible technology.

Powered by BYD’s electric-first DM-i (Dual-Mode Intelligent) hybrid platform, the Sealion 5 offers smooth urban electric driving with the reassurance of long-range flexibility. It’s designed to introduce more South Africans to electric mobility without the concerns that can come with fully electric range.

Inside, the Sealion 5 combines practicality with intelligent technology, boasting a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, intelligent voice control, keyless entry, and wireless charging that guarantees a modern driving experience while family-focused touches such as a spacious second row, generous boot, electric tailgate, and 60:40 split-fold rear seats support everyday utility.

“With the Sealion 5 starting at just R499,900, we’re not just launching a new car; we’re redefining value in the SUV market. This pricing is a deliberate move to make advanced plug-in hybrid technology truly accessible. We believe South African families shouldn't have to choose between cutting-edge efficiency, premium features, and financial peace of mind. The Sealion 5 delivers all three, proving that you can step into the future of driving without a luxury price tag” says Steve Chang, Managing Director at BYD Auto South Africa.

Premium features such as heated and ventilated driver seats, 360-degree camera with parking sensors, sunroof and sunshade, front electric seats, and multiple USB A and C charging points bring comfort and convenience to both variants.The Sealion 5 also includes BYD’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, allowing the car to act as a portable power source — a feature increasingly relevant in South Africa’s evolving energy landscape.

The pricing announcement follows sustained momentum from BYD’s South African expansion, driven by the company’s global innovation ecosystem spanning batteries, solar, energy storage, and new-energy vehicles.

“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.

The Sealion 5 joins BYD’s growing local portfolio of Pure Electric and Super Plug-in Hybrid models including the Dolphin Surf (South Africa’s most affordable EV), Sealion 6, Sealion 7, Shark 6, Seal and others.

“BYD is rolling out between two hundred and three hundred EV chargers nationwide, strengthening the charging ecosystem and making electric mobility more accessible to every South African”, says Nomonde Kweyi, Marketing Director at BYD Auto South Africa. “This momentum is driven by four core technologies that define BYD’s leadership in new energy vehicles and together, they shape the experience you’ll find in every BYD on the road today”.