Europcar Mobility Group UK has strengthened its commitment to greener mobility with the addition of the BYD Seal U DM-i Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) to its rental fleet.
The latest model offers up to 78 miles of electric-only driving and a combined petrol-electric range of up to 700 miles, making it a practical choice for drivers new to electric motoring.
With its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality and tech-rich interior, the Seal U is suited to both business and leisure users, and is available through Europcar’s Flex Model Choice programme.
Tom Middleditch, head of electric Mobility at Europcar, said: “The BYD Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV is a great way for motorists to test out electric driving, whilst having the reassurance of a petrol engine to remove any range anxiety.
“We were keen to add the BYD Seal U DM-i to the Europcar fleet because it offers convenience for both business and leisure travellers.”
As part of the Flex Model Choice service, businesses can select specific electric and plug-in hybrid models – including the BYD Seal U – for a minimum of three months at a fixed monthly rate.
This aims to provide organisations with greater cost control and enables accurate forecasting of Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) liabilities, making it an attractive solution for company car and salary sacrifice schemes.
The BYD Seal U DM-i features a battery capacity of up to 26.6kWh, with DC fast charging from 30% to 80% in as little as 35 minutes.
It can also be charged from 15% to 100% using an 11kW home charger in around two hours.
Equipped with a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, 360-degree parking cameras, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a digital driver’s display and head-up display, the Seal U also includes heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and adaptive cruise control with steering assistance.
Middleditch added: “At Europcar we are investing in a wide range of vehicles to ensure we have something for every driver and every journey.
“Growing our fleet of low and zero tailpipe emission vehicle options helps our customers get first-hand experience of electric motoring without having to make a long-term financial commitment.
“And, crucially, as part of Flex Model Choice, businesses can book a specific make and model of electric vehicle, making it ideal for salary sacrifice schemes where the BiK needs to be forecast accurately.”
