I’ve been driving ICE(Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles all my life and in September 2023, myself, my dad and uncle decided to have a test drive on an EV(Electric Vehicle). We tested the BYD Atto 3 and BYD Seal. The first impression was “No fume, no sound, no drag”.

In the journey, that first impression was impressive enough for me to keep feeling that i would like an EV when their value for money matches that of a conventional ICE Vehicle. What i meant is, for example the BYD Dolphin was approx. MYR120k and the BYD Atto 3 was MYR 170k (both extended range models) but they had counterparts from Proton (local manufacturer) that had better finishing (in my opinion the X50) at a lower price. Personally, the 3 “No” were not enough.

Until the BYD SEAL was launched. The first roadshow showcasing the Seal in Miri was on 2nd March (a few days, I went on the 2nd). I didn’t get to test drive due to the long queue, but booked one unit anyway. The Sales Agent arranged for a test drive the next day which i went with my wife. Long story short, i got my SEAL on 10th March from Kuching, and drove it home to Bintulu.

Considerations:

1. I had never wanted an EV, despite all the narratives on environment, i find it more a facade by both factions to sway buyers to justify to their “moral” values towards the environment. I refuse to involve in the debate but listen to both sides.
2. My economics of buying a car (and how i survived without buying for over 10 years) includes comparing what it costs for me to drive my 20-year-old Camry vs purchasing a new car :
   • Level 1 – Nett car cost – New car cost vs selling old car
   • Level 2 – Fuel or Energy Efficiency savings of new car
   • Level 3 – Comfort and ease of maintenance
   • using the savings in level 2, calculate the ROI years for the Level 1 nett car cost, then include the level 3 intangible benefits
3. The books Die with Zero and Happier
   • What is our ultimate currency? If all things are a form of currency?
     • I purchase wages (in money form) with time and effort (which comes at times with price of health)
     • I purchase home with money to provide a roof over my family’s head (security)
     • I purchase food with money to provide meals for my family (security)
     • I purchase a car so that my family could commute comfortably (comfort)
     • I purchase A/C(air conditioners) so that my family could live in comfort.
     • But WHY WOULD I Purchase al that? becausesecurity prevents me from being unhappy, and comfort makes me and my family happy and, ultimately, me happier. The list goes on but for a blog, this should be enough.
   • Dying with Zero?
     • My dad’s favorite quote from “Die with Zero” – “Not many 90-year-olds can go skiing”
     • I’m 42, how many good driving years have i got left, reflexes will leave me, appreciation for power will leave me, heck, i’m already losing passion for the drinking sessions i used to enjoy so much with my bros.
     • Never literally aim to die with Zero! The book is much more that the title. And even if it is, one should never just believe in everything a single book says, this is a book you treat as a perspective and only apply what “makes sense”.
     • Want vs Need – I decided that “I WANTED this SEAL,” yup, all EGO at play, no sugarcoating with “Fuel Efficiency,” “Smooth Driving,” “Long term environmental impact.” Just simply WANTED. I don’t need it. Clear conscience. No justification, it’s a luxury i have decided i can comfortably afford without hurting my retirement nest after a thorough analysis. (this is why the conviction to own the vehicle is solid and unwavering)
4. A little more technical Homework for those who are interested in the SEAL. I am from a high risk industry and Safety is my top priority:
   • NCAP Crash Test Video
   • Euro NCAP BYD Seal Report

I’ve delayed this post due to the time spent enjoying my Seal, Losing it, and mourning over it. But those are stories for another post. If you are contemplating to buy an EV for the first time, i only hope this helps you with additional perspectives to make the decision.