BYD unveils Seal 08, Sealion 08 as new flagship models

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On Jan. 16, BYD officially announced two new flagship vehicles under its Ocean series: the Seal 08 sedan and the Sealion 08 SUV. Both models belong to the newly introduced «Ocean 8» series and are positioned as large, premium flagships that sit at the top of the Ocean lineup.

Image source: BYD

Image source: BYD

Official teaser images suggest the Seal 08 will take the form of a mid-to-large-size coupe-style sedan, while the Sealion 08 adopts a more robust, upright design typical of a mid-to-large SUV. Both vehicles are derived from the Ocean S concept revealed at last year’s Auto Shanghai, and will debut BYD Ocean series’ next-generation «Ocean Aesthetics» design language.

The names of the two flagships were officially confirmed at BYD Ocean series’ fourth-anniversary Ocean Day event, held in Shenzhen on December 15, 2025. According to the company, both the Seal 08 and Sealion 08 will feature BYD’s latest battery technology, advanced driver-assistance functions, and an upgraded intelligent cockpit, targeting customers seeking a more premium and comprehensive mobility experience.

BYD said the two models are scheduled to make their first public appearance in the first quarter of 2026.

Since its establishment in November 2021, BYD’s Ocean series has delivered a cumulative six million vehicles in just four years. Several core models—including the Song PLUS, Seagull, Dolphin, and Seal—have each surpassed one million units in lifetime sales, underscoring the brand’s rapid growth and strong market traction.