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^th 2026.

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.

The evening brought together customers, leaders from the business and automotive sectors, alongside media representatives, for the grand unveiling, with both the Dynamic (DM-i) and Premium (DM-p) variants on full display.

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.

Across both variants, the SEALION 8 offers a combined system range of up to 1,118 km, allowing electric-assisted efficiency for the daily commute, with the long-distance capability to travel the length of the island and back.

The interior of the BYD SEALION 8 matches the performance of the drive. The cabin is anchored by a 15.6-inch infotainment system and brought to life by a 21-speaker surround sound system. Memory and massaging seats, a panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade, and up to 1,960 litres of boot space mean it is as well-suited to a family weekend away as it is to the daily school run. Safety is equally considered, with nine airbags, a 360-degree camera with four-zone sensors, and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) adaptor that lets the SEALION 8 power external devices wherever the road takes you.

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.