Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1535229
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 11 MAY 2025 6 COMMERCIAL BYD unveils SEAL U DM-i Plug-In hybrid at Smart City Malta: A leap forward in sustainable mobility BYD, the world's leading manu- facturer of new energy vehicles, officially launched its highly anticipated SEAL U DM-i Plug- In Hybrid SUV during a public event at Laguna Walk, Smart City. This marked the debut of BYD's first PHEV in the Euro- pean market, and a milestone in the brand's mission to bring ad- vanced, eco-friendly technology to everyday drivers. The BYD SEAL U DM-i rede- fines plug-in hybrid mobility, boasting an impressive com- bined range of over 1,000 km, thanks to its cutting-edge Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology. Its electric-first drivetrain com- bines a powerful electric motor with BYD's proprietary Blade Battery, using the petrol engine only as support. With up to 80 km of electric range, low fuel consumption (as little as 0.9L/100km WLTP weighted), and fast charging capabilities (30–80% in 35 min- utes), the SEAL U DM-i is posi- tioned as a premium family SUV that doesn't compromise. Guests at the launch event were introduced to the SEAL U DM-i's Ocean Aesthetics design language, characterized by flow- ing lines and a sleek, aerody- namic silhouette. Inside, visitors explored a cabin featuring high- grade vegan leather, a rotatable 15.6-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and 31-colour ambient lighting. Beyond style and comfort, the SEAL U DM-i includes a full suite of intelligent safety sys- tems, such as adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, and ad- vanced child monitoring tech- nology. Its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality even allows the car to power external devic- es—ideal for camping or emer- gencies. BYD representatives and prod- uct experts were on hand to guide guests through every de- tail of the SEAL U DM-i, high- lighting how it merges inno- vation with real-world utility. With its competitive pricing, low running costs, and futuristic features, the SEAL U DM-i sets a bold new standard for plug-in hybrids in Europe. Atlas Healthcare and IVALIFE host webinar on voluntary occupational pension plans and automatic enrolment ATLAS Healthcare and IV- ALIFE organised a webinar in light of the significant chang- es expected in Malta's pension system, to inform and support businesses ahead of the antici- pated introduction of auto-en- rolment for workplace pen- sions. Catherine Calleja, Managing Director at Atlas Healthcare, opened the session and intro- duced the concept of auto-en- rolment and its successes in other jurisdictions where sav- ings and participation rates increased far more than those achieved by most opt-in plans. This was followed by a dis- cussion led by Matthew Vella, Head of Corporate Distribu- tion at IVALIFE. The session explored the implications of automatic enrolment for both employers and employees, and delved into how businesses can effectively structure an Oc- cupational Pension Plan. Key topics included the impact of pension schemes on employee benefits and talent retention, as well as cost-effective, flexi- ble solutions tailored to diverse business needs. The discussion also provided an overview of taxation benefits and govern- ment incentives associated with these retirement planning options. Ms Calleja expressed appreci- ation for the engagement shown by participants and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue around workplace pension reform and retirement planning, stating: "With the introduction of auto-enrol- ment for workplace pensions drawing near, we are focused on supporting employers and employees, as they manage this important transition. Our goal is to provide clear guidance and practical solutions that not on- ly ensure value for money and compliance with the new reg- ulations but also highlight the long-term value of structured retirement planning for em- ployees. By understanding the implications and opportunities of auto-enrolment, businesses can strengthen their employee benefits offering, enhance tal- ent retention, and contribute meaningfully to the financial well-being of their workforce." Mr Vella added that "these developments bring about change which may be perceived as additional challenges by em- ployers. Occupational pensions should not be seen as an obliga- tion but rather an opportunity. Employers who engage early will have a powerful tool to at- tract, retain and reward talent, while providing employees the means to build greater finan- cial security for the future. We are confident that IVALIFE has transparent, simple to under- stand solutions that improve employee financial literacy, strengthening organisational culture and creating lasting val- ue for both employers and their teams."