BYD says the arrival of the Sea Lion 5 marks another milestone in the manufacturer’s mission to help solve South Africa’s energy and mobility challenges, not just selling vehicles.
“BYD is not just a car manufacturer. We’re a technology company focused on creating a cleaner, smarter future. The Sea Lion 5 represents how innovation can meet real South African needs, combining energy efficiency, advanced safety and everyday utility,” says Nomonde Kweyi, Marketing Director, BYD Auto South Africa.
Built on BYD’s DMI (Dual-Mode Intelligent) hybrid platform, the plug-in hybrid Sea Lion 5 bridges the gap between electric and conventional mobility, introducing South Africans to electric mobility without the “range fear” that can come with driving pure electric.
The family SUV combines spacious versatility with intuitive technology, featuring a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, wireless charging, intelligent voice control system and a large infotainment screen that anchors its refined, modern interior.
The launch follows the recent visit to Johannesburg by Stella Li, BYD’s Executive Vice President, who reinforced the company’s long-term commitment to South Africa. During her engagements, she highlighted BYD’s ambition to support South Africa’s transition to cleaner transport and energy solutions, with investment plans spanning new-energy vehicles, charging infrastructure and partnerships with government and the private sector, aimed at strengthening the country’s sustainable automotive ecosystem.
Full specifications and pricing for the Sea Lion 5 will be revealed at an official media launch in November followed by consumer sales across BYD dealerships countrywide.
The Sea Lion 5 joins BYD’s growing local portfolio of Pure Electric and Super Plug-in Hybrid models, which already include the recently launched BYD Dolphin Surf (South Africa’s most affordable EV) as well as the BYD Sea Lion 6, Sea Lion 7, Shark 6, Seal and others.
Together, these vehicles represent BYD’s vision to make sustainable mobility accessible to every type of South African driver.
Mahindra South Africa has introduced the Bolero MaXX Pik Up, a new addition to its single cab range. The model joins the existing Pik Up S4 and S6 line up and is aimed at expanding Mahindra's portfolio of purpose-built transport solutions in the country.
With forecasts of snow, icy rain and stormy weather across the country, motorists are urged to drive carefully and adapt their driving style to suit the conditions.
With Women’s Month well under way, Marcia Mayaba reflects on nearly three decades in automotive, the responsibility of leadership, the Woman of Stature honour, and why her greatest achievement may still lie ahead.
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Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), which is building a national network of off grid, ultra-fast EV charging stations powered by renewable energy, has welcomed the latest new energy vehicle (NEV) sales figures, saying they confirm a trend it has tracked for several years.
South Africa's transition towards electrified mobility continued to gain momentum during June 2026, with 3 045 new energy vehicles (NEVs) sold, representing a 104.2% increase compared to the 1 491 units recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.
The rapid shift towards electric mobility is reshaping the automotive landscape, and workshops dedicated to electric vehicles are at the forefront of this transformation.
