It looks like BYD Cars Philippines will once again have a very busy year with several upcoming launches. While they already revealed the Sealion 7 last week as their high-performance electric crossover, the automaker is looking to launch more plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models via its DM-i powertrain.

After seeing the BYD Atto 2 DM-i get PHEV recognition from the Department of Energy (DOE) last week, the automaker has received yet another new PHEV recognition for another upcoming vehicle, the BYD Sealion 05 DM-i.

That's right, the refreshed and upgraded version of the Seal 5 has just been recognized as a PHEV for the Philippine market, which means a local launch might happen later this year.

Based on the DOE's initial listing & documents, the Seal 05 DM-i may be renamed as the Seal 5 to keep the local nomenclature. This is not surprising since BYD has quickly established its reputation in the country, and Filipino buyers are now becoming used to the BYD model nomenclature.

As for the plug-in powertrain, the new Seal 5 DM-i will be powered by a 1.5L four-cylinder engine that makes 100 PS with 126 Nm of torque and an electric motor that puts out 120 kW or 163 PS with 210 Nm of torque. Side-by-side with what the Chinese market gets, and it's quite similar. However, the PH-spec Seal 5 will get a smaller battery pack.

Instead of the bigger 15.87 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Seal updated 5 DM-i will get a smaller 7.42 kWh LFP battery. This translates to an electric range of 55 km, based on the NEDC cycle, and an AC charging rate of 3.3 kW. Its total combined range has yet to be revealed, although we won't be surprised if it's capable of doing more than 1,000 km, just like its predecessor.

Design-wise, the refreshed Seal 5 DM-i will get a sleeker and more curvaceous appearance that's similar to the Sealion 6's looks. From the more dynamic LED headlights to the revised LED taillights, as well as the new alloy wheels and redesigned bumpers, the Seal 5 DM-i looks sportier than ever.

In terms of dimensions, the Seal 5 DM-i will measure 4780mm long, 1837mm wide, and 1515mm tall on a 2718mm wheelbase. It will also have a curb weight of 1475kg, a trunk capacity of 508 liters, and a minimum turning radius of 5.5 meters. Last but not least, there will reportedly be two variants available for the updated Seal 5 DM-i: Essential and Dynamic.

Since the refreshed BYD Seal 5 DM-i has essentially been confirmed for the Philippines via the DOE, does this mean the current Seal 5 DM-i is on its way out? We'll find out once BYD Cars Philippines starts posting teasers about its updated plug-in hybrid sedan.