Chinese automaker BYD has strengthened its presence in the Philippine market with the introduction of the Sealion 6 DM-i hybrid SUV. Launched on July 25, 2024, this new model further diversifies BYD's offerings in the Southeast Asian country.

The Sealion 6 DM-i, known as the Song Plus DM-i in China, enters the Philippine market with a competitive starting price of Php 1,548,000 ($26,420). This latest addition joins BYD's existing lineup in the Philippines, which includes the Atto 3, Dolphin, Han, and Tang models.

Key features of the Sealion 6 DM-i include:

- Hybrid powertrain: The vehicle utilizes BYD's latest DM 5.0 hybrid system, offering improved fuel efficiency and performance.

- Competitive pricing: At its price point, the Sealion 6 DM-i aims to attract budget-conscious consumers looking for advanced hybrid technology.

- Part of a successful model series:The Sealion 6 DM-i belongs to the Song Plus family, which recently celebrated its one millionth vehicle production milestone.

BYD's expansion in the Philippines is supported by its partnership with local distributor Ayala, established in August 2023. Ayala's subsidiary, AC Motors, handles sales and maintenance of BYD models through its network.

The launch of the Sealion 6 DM-i is part of BYD's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Philippine market. As of January 2024, the company had over 10 dealerships in the country and planned to add more than 20 points of sale throughout the year.

This launch aligns with BYD's global expansion efforts. In June 2024, the company sold 26,995 new energy vehicles (NEVs) in overseas markets, highlighting its growing international presence.

With the ongoing introduction of new models and expansion of its dealership network, BYD is striving to take advantage of the increasing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles in the Philippines. This initiative aims to provide consumers with a broader selection of eco-friendly transportation choices.