The automotive narrative is turning green, with electric vehicles (EVs) driving towards a sustainable future. Making a noteworthy entry into Singapore's blossoming EV market is the Seal, an innovative creation by Chinese automotive giant BYD. This compact executive fastback is a new contender and a remarkable performance, elegance, and affordability exhibit.
Performance and aesthetics rolled into one
Timely hitting the market in alignment with Singapore's green aspirations, the Seal's electric charm is underpinned by robust performance. The specifications are appealing, with a promising range extending up to 460 kilometres in the entry-level Dynamic variant, thanks to its 61.44kWh battery. The car's motor, rated at 203hp and 310nm of torque, ensures a quick dash from 0 to 100 km/h, encapsulating the urban driving desires of many Singaporeans.
The aesthetics of the Seal garner equal admiration. It's a sight to behold with a sleek design reminiscent of a Ferrari Portofino, especially at the front profile. The car's coupe-like profile, complemented by a spacious interior, promises a comfortable and stylish ride. The Seal also takes safety seriously, featuring a comprehensive suite of safety utilities, including ABS, EBD, and an electronic stability programme.
Variants to suit different preferences
The Seal is introduced in three variants: Dynamic, Premium, and Performance, each with distinct offerings. While the Dynamic variant is a single motor charm driving the rear wheels, the Premium variant steps up with a larger 86.52kWh battery, extending the range to 570km and increasing power to 313hp. The top-tier Performance variant is a dual motor powerhouse with an all-wheel-drive system, boasting 630hp and 670nm of torque, capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds.
The Seal doesn't shy away from pampering its occupants. All models come with a complete panoramic glass roof, a large rotating 15.6-inch infotainment display, a heads-up display, and ventilated front seats, among other features. This thoughtful provision of features, combined with its competitive pricing starting at S$238,888, makes the Seal a compelling choice for many.
Steering towards a greener Singapore
The debut of the Seal is more than just a product launch. It encapsulates a significant stride towards achieving the sustainable goals outlined in Singapore's Green Plan 2030. With the appeal of more affordable electric vehicles like the Seal, the transition towards greener transportation solutions is accelerated.
The Seal's entry is a solid testament to the evolving automotive terrain in Singapore, shedding light on the increasing allure and viability of electric vehicles. It's a promising step towards reducing emissions and fostering a greener future, making electric mobility a reachable dream for many in Singapore.
Step into a new era of green mobility with BYD's Seal, blending robust performance with a sleek design, embodying Singapore's future of electric vehicles.
Tokyo start-up unveils the colossal Archax robot
Science fiction and reality are melding with Japan's recent robotic marvel. Tokyo-based start-up Tsubame Industries has brought to life a giant robot reminiscent of the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam from the cherished Japanese animation series. But this isn't merely a static display; it's an enormous machine named Archax, with a hefty price tag matching its grandeur.
Engineering magnificence meets fantasy
Standing at 4.5 metres and weighing 3.2 tonnes, Archax is the epitome of an engineering marvel and a childhood dream come true for many. The robot's mobility features are nothing short of awe-inspiring. It boasts a cockpit with monitors displaying images from exterior cameras, enabling the pilot to manoeuvre the robot's arms and hands using joysticks from within its torso.
This awe-inspiring creation isn't just a static display. It's a fully functional robot with two modes – an upright “robot mode” and a “vehicle mode”, allowing it to travel up to 10 kilometres per hour. The meticulous engineering involved in ensuring such fluid motion is a testament to the skills and innovation harboured by Tsubame Industries.
A lofty price for a grand creation
Archax doesn't come cheap. With a price tag of US$3 million, it's a luxury tailored for the well-heeled robot enthusiast. However, this price mirrors the extensive engineering and cutting-edge technology employed to bring such a complex machine to life. It's not merely a robot but a monumental achievement that pushes the boundaries of robotics.
While Archax is currently a spectacle for the affluent, the vision extends beyond mere amusement. The robot could serve in disaster relief operations or even the space industry, marking a significant milestone in robotics.
Blurring the lines between fiction and reality
The unveiling of Archax is a significant stride in the domain of robotics. It's a spectacle that underlines the remarkable advancements in robotics and engineering, bringing a beloved fictional robot to life and opening a world of possibilities for the future of robotics.
Archax is more than just a whimsical creation; the zenith demonstrates that human ingenuity and technological innovation can reach, marking a remarkable milestone in the robotics domain.
