Behind the Wheel with Sky Sports F1 Commentator Harry Benjamin: A Look at the BYD Plug-in Hybrid
For motorsport fans, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of Formula 1. The noise, the speed, the rush… for Sky Sports F1 commentator Harry Benjamin, that excitement has come full circle. From watching the sport as a kid to now being the voice behind the mic, his journey has been nothing short of surreal. But the world is changing and today, we’re shifting gears—literally—as Harry takes the wheel of a BYD plug-in hybrid.
Top Features of the BYD U DM-i Hybrid
Harry recently had the chance to spend some time behind the wheel of this cutting-edge vehicle. It was fantastic to get his expert view and here are his top five takeaways from this experience:
1. Supreme Comfort
The first thing Harry noticed? Comfort. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or hitting the open road, this car delivers a smooth and refined ride. Plush seats, spacious interior, and well-thought-out ergonomics make it an ideal choice for families and commuters alike.
2. The Power of Instant Torque
As an electric plug-in hybrid, this BYD benefits from instant torque, providing an incredibly smooth drive. Whether accelerating from a standstill or overtaking on the motorway, the power delivery is seamless.
3. High-Tech Rotating Display
One of the standout features in the BYD Seal U is its massive rotating touchscreen display. With just the press of a button—either on the dash or directly on the steering wheel—the screen shifts seamlessly between landscape and portrait mode, offering an adaptable infotainment experience- great for watching YouTube. Now you don’t get that in F1!
4. Next-Level Voice Control
Forget fumbling with buttons—this car responds to voice commands with incredible accuracy. Just say “Hi BYD,” and the car listens to your every request, from adjusting the climate to setting navigation destinations and even opening the windows. It’s intuitive, easy to use, and makes the driving experience easy, fun and productive!
Event host and TV presenter Danni Menzies posing with the BYD Seal U DM-i
5. The Extra Range Hybrid Powertrain
In today’s world of electrification, range anxiety can still be a concern for some. BYD tackles this by offering a plug-in hybrid system that provides extra range when you need it. Whether you’re driving around the city or embarking on a long-distance journey, the added petrol backup offers peace of mind for those who aren’t yet used to EV charging.
The Game-Changer: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Technology
One of the most exciting features of this BYD hybrid is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability. This allows the car to power external devices, making it a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts, businesses, and even event organisers. At the recent Inventa Farra event, the entire DJ booth was powered by this very car—an impressive demonstration of what’s possible with modern EV technology. Imagine charging your laptop, running a camping setup, or even keeping essential appliances running during a power outage, all from your car! Smart, isn’t it?
A Quick Pit Stop: F1 Talk with Harry Benjamin
Of course, we couldn’t let Harry go without talking a little bit about Formula 1! Last season was nothing short of thrilling, with a real championship battle unfolding in both the constructors’ and drivers’ standings. What’s most exciting, according to Harry, is the unpredictability—each race weekend feels fresh, and fans genuinely don’t know what to expect.
As a commentator, stepping into the Sky Sports F1 team has been an incredible learning experience for Harry. Working alongside some of the greatest legends in the sport, he finds himself in the production room, helping shape the broadcasts he once watched as a fan. “It’s a bit surreal,” he admits, “but you’ve got to get on with the job!”
Final Thoughts
The BYD hybrid is a glimpse into the future of mobility—where comfort, technology, and efficiency come together seamlessly. With features like instant torque, advanced infotainment, and ground-breaking V2L capabilities, it’s a car that stands out in an increasingly competitive market.
If you want to keep up with Harry Benjamin’s F1 insights and behind-the-scenes content, be sure to follow him on Instagram and social media. And if you’re considering a plug-in hybrid for your next vehicle, the BYD is definitely one to put on your shortlist!
What do you think about hybrid technology? Are you team EV, hybrid, or still loyal to petrol? Let us know in the comments
