Rever Automotive, the official distributor and aftersales provider for BYD and DENZA new-energy vehicles in Thailand, has announced results from a real-world test of the BYD SEALION 5 DM-i 2026 plug-in hybrid system in Bangkok traffic.
The challenge was conducted during both morning and evening rush-hour conditions. Automotive media participants recorded the lowest electricity cost at only 39 satang per kilometer while driving in EV Mode.
Real Bangkok congestion route
The activity included qualifying and final rounds, starting from BYD Academy on Srinakarin Road before heading into Bangkok congestion zones such as Asok, Siam, Silom, Sathorn and One Bangkok. Each run covered roughly 50-53 kilometers.
In the final round, Motoring X achieved the best result at 8.7 kWh/100 km. Based on a home electricity rate of 4.5 baht per unit, the total electricity cost was 19.97 baht, or 39 satang per kilometer.
BYD DM-i powertrain and range
The BYD SEALION 5 DM-i 2026 combines an engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 155 kW, or 210 hp, and 210 Nm of torque. It uses an 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery.
The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 18 kW, offers up to 110 km of electric driving range under NEDC, and can travel more than 1,200 km in total when the fuel tank and battery are both full.
Cabin and safety equipment
The cabin features soft-touch materials, power-adjustable ventilated front seats, a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system.
Safety and driver assistance features include ADAS functions such as autonomous emergency braking and a 360-degree camera system, supporting both urban use and long-distance travel.
Electricity cost test results
| Round | Media outlet | Distance | Charging cost | Cost per km |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qualifying day 1 | Clubza | 51 km | 21.8 baht | 42 satang/km |
| Qualifying day 2 | Grand Prix | 50 km | 21.6 baht | 43 satang/km |
| Qualifying day 3 | Motoring X | 53 km | 21.94 baht | 41 satang/km |
| Final round | Motoring X | 51 km | 19.97 baht | 39 satang/km |
BYD SEALION 5 DM-i 2026 prices and campaign
- BYD SEALION 5 DM-i 2026 Dynamic: 759,900 baht
- BYD SEALION 5 DM-i 2026 Premium: 799,900 baht
Customers taking delivery by June 30, 2026 can receive campaign benefits worth up to 109,000 baht under company conditions, including BYD CARE, Lifetime Warranty, a home charger with installation, first-class insurance and ceramic window film.
Bangkok Motorhaus Perspective
Rever Automotive tactic of putting media behind the wheel in actual Bangkok traffic is a clever answer to a real showroom objection. In 2026, some buyers are hesitating on full BEVs because of charging and long-distance concerns, but they also do not want to return to high fuel costs from a conventional combustion vehicle.
The 39-satang-per-kilometer number speaks directly to urban drivers who spend hours in traffic every day. It positions BYD DM-i as a bridge: close to EV-like running cost in the city, with less anxiety on longer trips.
The DC fast-charging capability of up to 18 kW is an important advantage in this price band. With an 18.3 kWh battery, the SEALION 5 DM-i can cover many Bangkok commuting patterns as an EV for daily use, especially for drivers traveling around 40-60 km per day.
The point to watch is aftersales execution. A plug-in hybrid is mechanically more complex than a BEV because the engine and high-voltage electric system must work together. Lifetime Warranty helps answer early customer concerns, but the long-term confidence story will depend on consistent service quality across Rever service network.
