BYD Seal U plug-in hybrid joins Europcar fleet

Europcar Mobility Group UK has added the BYD Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to its fleet.

The BYD Seal U has an electric-only range of 78 miles and a combined range with the petrol engine of up to 700 miles.

“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,” said Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility at Europcar.

“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.” 

He explained: “Featuring vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, drivers can use it as a power source to run a laptop for work on the go.

“It can also power electric BBQs and kettles, or even an outdoor projector for a movie night on a family camping trip, making it a great choice for family trips too. And it features an impressive range of equipment, plus a spacious interior for five adults to sit comfortably.”

The new addition to the Europcar fleet comes at the same time as its launch of Flex Model Choice to give businesses the flexibility of rental with the vehicle model certainty of leasing.

Specific makes and models from Europcar’s electrified range, which includes battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and PHEVs, can be booked for rental for a minimum of three months and up to 12 months at a fixed monthly rate.

This, says Europcar, will enable employers to accurately allocate vehicles and forecast benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax expenses.

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.”