BYD, the Chinese automotive manufacturer, has recently introduced the Seal electric sedan to the Indian market. The starting price for the base model, the Dynamic variant, is Rs 41 lakh, reaching up to a hefty Rs 53 lakh for the top-of-the-line Performance AWD variant, with all prices being ex-showroom in India. This marks the third vehicle model BYD has released in India, following the e6 MPV and the Atto 3 SUV, and the Seal will be directly imported into the country.
Interested customers can place their bookings for the Seal for a refundable amount of Rs 1.25 lakh. Those who secure their bookings before the end of March 2024 will enjoy additional services such as a complimentary home charger installation, a 3kW portable charge box and a reassuring 6 years roadside assistance, among other perks.
The BYD Seal is available in two battery packs – the 61.44kWh and the larger 82.56kWh, both of which feature BYD's blade battery technology. The single motor design of the smaller battery pack outputs 204hp and 310Nm of torque, boasting a range of 510km according to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test cycle.
As for variants equipped with the larger 82.5kWh battery pack, customers can choose between RWD and AWD configurations. The standard RWD is rated at 312hp and 360Nm of torque while the dual motor AWD produces an impressive 530hp and 670Nm of torque. The range drops a bit for the AWD version to 580km, but the RWD can go up to 650km, all on a single charge. The top-end Seal variant, BYD claims, can leap from 0 to 100kph in a remarkable 3.8 seconds.
The fast charging capability of the Seal allows it to reach 80% charge from just 10% in 37 minutes via a 150kW power source. The process takes significantly longer with an 11kW AC charger, requiring 8.6 hours for a complete charge from zero. Furthermore, the Seal is V2L charging compatible.
BYD offers a generous 8 year warranty or up to 1,60,000km for the battery, along with an 8 year warranty or up to 1,50,000km for the motor and motor controller unit.
Aesthetically, the Seal adopts design elements from BYD’s “ocean aesthetics” design language and the 2021 Ocean X concept. The 19-inch alloy wheels, four boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, LED headlamps with a unique C-shaped element extending into the bumper, and a rear full-width LED light bar are some of the car's eye-catching exterior features. The Seal can be picked in four exclusive colours – Arctic Blue, Aurora White, Atlantis Grey, and Cosmos Black.
The cabin of the BYD Seal features a 15.6-inch centre console infotainment rotating screen, with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a heads-up display for the driver. It also offers features like 8-way electronically adjustable driver’s seat, memory function, heated and cooled front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibility, leatherette upholstery, dual-zone AC and a 360-degree camera. The Sea has a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, which only enhances its desirability.
Although there's currently a lack of electric sedans within its price range, the BYD Seal will find competition in the form of other EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.
BYD has gained increasing recognition, notably outselling Tesla in Q4 of 2023, and the introduction of the Seal further exemplifies their commitment to challenging competitors in the electric vehicle market.
Powertrain and Performance:
Hybrid V8 Engine: The upcoming Audi R8 will be equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 800 horsepower. This internal combustion engine is complemented by three electric motors, collectively delivering a total output of 920 horsepower.
Acceleration and Top Speed: This formidable powertrain enables the Audi R8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 2.7 seconds, with an anticipated top speed exceeding 210 mph.
Shared Platform with Lamborghini:
Lamborghini Temerario: The R8's hybrid system is derived from Lamborghini's upcoming model, the Temerario, which utilizes the same V8 engine paired with electric motors to achieve a combined output of 920 horsepower.
Structural and Electronic Components: Both the R8 and the Temerario will share structural elements and electronic architectures, benefiting from economies of scale and technological advancements.
Production and Market Positioning:
Manufacturing Facility: Production of the new R8 is slated to occur at Audi's Böllinger Höfe facility in Germany, the same location where previous R8 models were assembled.
Competitors: The revitalized R8 aims to compete with high-performance models such as the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911, offering a blend of electrified performance and luxury.
Strategic Implications:
This initiative aligns with Audi's strategy to transition towards an electrified future while maintaining its commitment to high-performance vehicles. By integrating hybrid technology into the R8, Audi seeks to offer a supercar that meets evolving environmental standards without compromising on performance.
In summary, the 2027 Audi R8 represents a fusion of traditional supercar attributes with modern hybrid technology, promising exhilarating performance and advanced engineering.
Performance-Focused Variants:
Roma Modificata (M):
The Roma, which concluded production last year, is being reimagined for 2025. Spy shots indicate a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. The updated Roma M is anticipated to feature revised styling, a more aggressive chassis setup, and increased power, potentially around 650hp, positioning it competitively against models like the Aston Martin Vantage and Porsche 911 Turbo. A Spider (convertible) version is also expected to follow.
SF90 Modificata (M):
Ferrari's flagship SF90 supercar is slated for the Modificata treatment. Given the existing SF90 Stradale produces 986hp, the updated SF90 M is expected to surpass the 1,000hp mark, solidifying its position in the hypercar segment.
296 Performance Variant:
The 296, known for its hybrid V6 powertrain, is set to receive a performance-oriented version. This iteration is expected to showcase more aggressive aerodynamics and enhanced power output, further elevating its dynamic capabilities.
First All-Electric Ferrari:
Marking a significant milestone, Ferrari will unveil its inaugural all-electric vehicle on October 9, 2025, during the company's Capital Markets Day. While specific details remain under wraps, this model represents Ferrari's entry into the electric vehicle market, blending performance with sustainability.
Strategic Shift:
This lineup signifies a strategic shift for Ferrari. Instead of increasing overall production volumes, the company aims to diversify its offerings by introducing a broader range of models, each produced in limited quantities. CEO Benedetto Vigna emphasized this approach aligns with Ferrari's identity as a luxury brand, maintaining exclusivity and desirability.
In summary, Ferrari's 2025 model introductions, including the Roma M, SF90 M, a high-performance 296 variant, and its first electric vehicle, underscore the brand's dedication to innovation while preserving its legacy of luxury and performance.
2025 BYD Seal Enhancements:
Wireless Connectivity: All variants now come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless smartphone integration.
Air Conditioning Improvements: The Seal is equipped with an enhanced air conditioning and purification system, ensuring a more comfortable cabin environment.
Suspension Upgrades: The mid-spec Premium variant now features Frequency Selective Dampers (FSD), previously exclusive to the top Performance trim. The Performance variant introduces BYD's DiSus-C system, which dynamically adjusts suspension stiffness in real-time to enhance ride comfort and handling.
2025 BYD Atto 3 Updates:
Interior Refresh: The Atto 3 now features an all-black interior, replacing the previous three-tone design, and introduces ventilated front seats for added comfort.
Battery Enhancement: The traditional lead-acid battery has been upgraded to a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) low-voltage battery, which is six times lighter and boasts a lifespan of 15 years.
Pricing and Availability:
BYD Seal: Bookings commenced on March 11, 2025, with a deposit of Rs 1.25 lakh. Official pricing will be announced in April.
BYD Atto 3: The first 3,000 units of the 2025 Atto 3 are available at existing prices, starting at Rs 24.99 lakh for the 49.92kWh Dynamic variant. The Premium and Superior variants, equipped with a 60.48kWh battery, are priced at Rs 29.85 lakh and Rs 33.99 lakh, respectively. Bookings are open with a token amount of Rs 30,000.
These updates reflect BYD's commitment to enhancing the driving experience and offering advanced features to its customers.
Battery Options and Performance:
The C-HR+ offers two battery configurations:
The C-HR+ is equipped with:
The C-HR+ is positioned between the Urban Cruiser EV and the bZ4X SUV in Toyota's electric lineup, targeting consumers seeking a compact yet spacious electric SUV option.
Launch and Availability:
The C-HR+ is slated for release in select European markets later this year, with plans to introduce it in other regions subsequently.
This launch underscores Toyota's dedication to expanding its electric vehicle offerings and meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions.
Top Performers:
Volkswagen is considering reviving the Polo brand in India, potentially introducing it in a new body style, such as a sub-4-meter SUV. This move aims to leverage the Polo's strong brand recognition among Indian enthusiasts.
Polo's Legacy in India
The Volkswagen Polo has been an iconic hatchback in the Indian market, known for its robust build and driving dynamics. Despite limited design updates during its tenure, it remained popular among car enthusiasts. Notably, out of the 700,000 Volkswagen cars sold in India to date, the Polo accounts for approximately 400,000 units, representing about 60% of the company's total sales in the country.
Potential Revival Strategies
While there is no official confirmation regarding the Polo's relaunch, Volkswagen India is exploring various possibilities. One such option is introducing the Polo in a crossover SUV style, possibly as a sub-4-meter SUV. This approach could involve platform modifications similar to those seen with the Škoda Kushaq, aiming to establish a new entry-level model that balances volume and profitability.
Global Variants and Market Adaptations
In international markets, Volkswagen offers different iterations of the Polo. For instance, in Brazil, the Polo is available in a 'Robust' off-road variant, while in South Africa, the Virtus sedan is marketed as the Polo Sedan. These adaptations showcase Volkswagen's flexibility in tailoring the Polo to meet regional preferences, which could influence the strategy for the Indian market.
Upcoming Launches
In addition to the potential Polo revival, Volkswagen plans to introduce the Golf GTI and Tiguan R Line in India through select dealerships, aiming to enhance the ownership experience for Indian consumers.
As Volkswagen evaluates the feasibility of reintroducing the Polo brand in India, enthusiasts and potential buyers eagerly await official announcements detailing the company's plans for this iconic nameplate.
Understanding AVAS and Its Importance
Electric and hybrid vehicles, like the Innova Hycross Hybrid, often operate silently, especially at lower speeds or in electric-only mode. While this reduces noise pollution, it poses a risk to pedestrians who may not hear these vehicles approaching. AVAS addresses this concern by emitting a sound to alert pedestrians of the vehicle's presence, thereby reducing potential accidents.
Availability in Innova Hycross Variants
The AVAS feature is now integrated into the strong hybrid variants of the Innova Hycross, specifically the VX, VX(O), ZX, and ZX(O) trims. This addition aligns the Innova Hycross with other models in the market, such as the Maruti Grand Vitara, which also offers AVAS to enhance pedestrian safety.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Beyond AVAS, the Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid is equipped with a suite of safety features, including:
Design and Features:
This unique Mustang concept features several modifications to enhance its off-road capabilities:
Loder1899 is considering limited production of this off-road Mustang, contingent upon public interest. Maximilian Loder expressed confidence in the concept's appeal, stating that positive feedback could lead to production.
Performance Specifications:
While specific performance details for the concept have not been disclosed, the standard 2025 Shelby GT350 is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 480 horsepower. An optional 3.0-liter supercharger kit is available for those seeking enhanced performance.
This innovative concept by Loder1899 showcases a bold fusion of classic muscle car heritage with modern off-road enhancements, offering enthusiasts a unique driving experience.