BYD’s seven-seater SUV ‘SEALION 8’ makes South Asian debut in Sri Lanka

Charith Panditharatne

Sri Lanka’s most popular NEV brand, BYD, in partnership with its authorised distributor John Keells CG Auto (JKCG Auto), officially launched the BYD SEALION 8 on March 10. 

Unveiled at a special launch event held at the Cinnamon Lakeside, the SEALION 8 launch marks the arrival of BYD’s flagship seven-seat plug-in hybrid electric SUV to the local market. Notably, Sri Lanka is among the first countries in the world to introduce the model, including the high-performance DM-p (Dual Mode Performance) variant.

Speaking at the launch event, John Keells CG Auto Chief Executive Officer, Charith Panditharatne, said: “The fact that Sri Lanka is among the first markets in the world to launch the SEALION 8 is a reflection of the confidence BYD has built in this market, a confidence earned by the extraordinary response we have seen from Sri Lankan customers since our first delivery just over a year ago.

With over 8,500 vehicles now on our roads, Sri Lankans have made it clear that they are ready for the NEV transition — and the SEALION 8, with its advanced DM-p performance hybrid technology, is our answer to customers who want the very best of what BYD offers, while also playing their part in building a more sustainable Sri Lanka.” The BYD SEALION 8 is a significant addition to the local BYD portfolio, designed for families who need the space and practicality of a seven-seater without compromising on performance or versatility. As a high-performance PHEV, it offers a practical solution for the Sri Lankan market, providing an extensive electric-assisted range for daily commutes, while delivering the total distance capability needed for island-wide travel without frequent stops.

A highlight of the launch was the debut of the DM-p variant, BYD’s Dual Mode Performance system, which represents a refined “Performance Hybrid” approach that balances powerful driving dynamics with everyday family utility. 

Where the DM-i (Dual Mode Intelligent) variant is tuned for efficiency-first driving, the DM-p pairs a turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors and intelligent all-wheel drive, delivering a 0–100 km/h time of just 4.9 seconds without compromising on range. 

The BYD SEALION 8 is now available at all BYD showrooms across Sri Lanka, offered in four colours; Dark Aquamarine, Ridge Grey, Arctic White, and Cosmos Black.