BYD Seal U has been the best-selling PHEV model in Europe for the last 11 months

Changing of the guard in Europe: BYD becomes the new PHEV leader, leaving behind the Ford Kuga and BMW X1.

The rise of Chinese manufacturers in the European car market is no longer just a forecast, but a statistical reality. According to the latest data provided by Data Force, the BYD Seal U achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the best-selling plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model in Europe in the first 11 months of 2025.

The Chinese SUV has dethroned historical leaders such as the Volkswagen Tiguan or the Volvo XC60, marking a paradigm shift in Europeans' preferences for sustainable mobility.

Top 5 best-selling PHEV models in Europe (January – November 2025)

BYD's success is all the more surprising as the percentage increase compared to last year is in the thousands, a sign that the distribution network and consumer confidence have exploded in record time.

The ranking is completed by models such as the BMW X1, Toyota C-HR and newcomer Jaecoo 7, another Chinese brand that has started to put pressure on the market, occupying 8th place.

What's happening in Romania? Debut and expansion

In Romania, BYD had a more cautious but extremely calculated start. The brand officially debuted on the local market in May 2025, initially launching four models: Dolphin, Atto 3, Seal and Seal U.

Local sales

If in the first months after launch the figures were modest (only a few units registered in the first 90 days), the end of 2025 shows an acceleration of interest.

• The BYD Seal U DM-i (plug-in hybrid) is also the "star" of the range, being preferred due to the combined autonomy of up to 1,080 km and the competitive price starting at approximately €34,100 (through the Rabla program and commercial bonuses).
• BYD Seal (Electric Sedan) has gained ground in the affordable premium segment, being seen as a solid alternative to the Tesla Model 3.

Range expansion

Recently, in October 2025, BYD introduced two more "Super Hybrid" models in Romania: Seal 5 DM-i (compact sedan) and Seal 6 DM-i, strengthening its offer for customers who are not yet ready to make the full switch to electric.

Why is BYD Seal U successful?

The secret of the Seal U (DM-i version) lies in its proprietary hybrid technology called Super DM (Dual Mode). Unlike traditional European PHEVs, the Chinese system prioritizes electric propulsion, with the internal combustion engine often acting only as a generator.

• EV range: Approximately 70-80 km (enough for daily commute).
• Fast charging: It is one of the few PHEV models that supports 18 kW DC (direct current) charging, allowing charging from 30% to 80% in just 35 minutes.
• Standard features: The Chinese offer features in the basic price that cost thousands of euros for German brands (15.6-inch rotating screen, ventilated seats, advanced assistance systems).

BYD's success in Europe is also supported by massive investments in local infrastructure, including the construction of a factory in Hungary and plans for a production facility in Turkey, moves aimed at avoiding customs duties imposed on vehicles produced in China.