[Digital Today reporter Kyung-min Hong] Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD is set to launch a large number of new flagship electric cars, including sedans and SUVs, in early 2026, stepping up its push into the premium EV market.

A mobility outlet, Electrek, reported on Thursday that the new lineup spans top-end models in BYD's Ocean series and flagship vehicles under its Dynasty sub-brand. It is marked by more upmarket design and advanced technology than existing models.

BYD plans to officially launch the Ocean series Seal08 sedan and Sealion08 SUV in the first quarter of 2026. Teaser images first unveiled at an Ocean Day event last month show the Sealion08 adopting a premium SUV design similar to the Denza N8L, while the Seal08 is expected to be larger than the previous Seal06, with improved interior space and convenience features. BYD has not yet disclosed pricing and final specifications, but the teaser images alone confirm it is a premium model targeting the high-end EV market.

The Ocean series has been made up of small, efficiency-focused EVs such as the Seagull, Dolphin and Seal, but BYD has gradually expanded into the premium market through existing SUV models such as the Sealion07. The Sealion08 to be launched this time is expected to be larger than its predecessor, with possible second- and third-row seating, and to feature a premium interior and advanced convenience equipment. The Seal08 sedan is also expected to offer a spacious cabin and a stable driving experience, with an overall length of at least 4,720 mm and a width of at least 1,880 mm.

BYD also plans to unveil the Tang9 SUV and Han9 sedan under its Dynasty sub-brand in the first half of 2026. A camouflaged Tang9 vehicle recently spotted in China showed a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, raising the possibility that the latest advanced driver assistance system and premium safety and convenience functions will be applied.

The Tang9 is a large SUV with an overall length of more than 5 metres and a width of around 2 metres. It will be offered with two powertrains, a battery-electric version and a plug-in hybrid. It will be priced around 200,000 to 300,000 yuan and is expected to target the entry-level luxury SUV market. In this way, BYD is strengthening its premium EV lineup not only through the Ocean series but also through the Dynasty brand, targeting a range of customer groups.

The strategy is already showing results in the market. BYD sold more than 2.25 million electric vehicles in 2025, leading Tesla by more than 600,000 units in the global EV market. With the new flagship EV launches, BYD is aiming to expand its range across electric supercars, luxury models, pickup trucks, compact SUVs and premium sedans, while pursuing both a larger market share in 2026 and a more premium brand image.

BYD said, "A new era begins with bold innovation," and signalled it would release additional information and official specifications. The plan shows BYD aims to go beyond simply increasing sales and to boost its competitiveness in the global premium EV market.

A set of BYD flagship D-segment SUV spy shots — the Tang 9 Series — has emerged. It is expected to debut alongside the Dynasty lineup's D-segment sedan, the Han 9 Series, in 1H 2026. Visible details also indicate LiDAR integration, suggesting strong potential for advanced… https://t.co/D8eBt4vf3e pic.twitter.com/XjpnBgLLYD