China’s EV giant is ready to unleash its newest secret weapon on the global stage. With the arrival of the new Sealion 7 in Europe, BYD expects sales to pick up rapidly. BYD’s new mid-size electric SUV will challenge top-selling EVs in Europe, including the Tesla Model Y.
After unveiling the new mid-size electric SUV at the Paris Motor Show last month, BYD’s Sealion 7 stole the show.
BYD’s head designer Wolfgang Egger said the new model is “more than just a simple SUV.” It’s “an expression of a special lifestyle.”
Egger is known for his iconic designs for Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, and Audi models. He’s also sort of an expert in attracting European customers, something BYD hopes to do.
You can see the influence of his past designs with sleek, flowing character lines and an aerodynamic profile. With an extended wheelbase, the sporty-looking electric SUV also has a spacious interior loaded with BYD’s latest software and connectivity tech.
The Sealion is the first EV to ride on its upgraded e-Platform 3.0 Evo, which BYD promises unlocks faster charging and better performance.
BYD preps new electric SUV to rival Europe’s top-sellers
Now, we are getting a better idea of what that performance will look like. According to newly released info (via AutoCar), the mid-size electric SUV will get up to 312 miles range in Europe.
With an 82.5 kWh battery pack, the base Sealion 7 Comfort trim will get 300 miles range range. The RWD model has a single electric motor with 308 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
A Design trim adds another motor to the front for AWD and up to 523 hp and 509 lb-ft of torque. However, the added motor cuts its range to 283 miles.
At the top of the lineup is the Excellence trim. It features the same 523 hp powertrain but gains a bigger 91.3 kWh battery for up to 312 miles driving range. The Comfort and Design models can charge from 10% to 80% in 32 minutes, while the Excellence trim cuts it to 24 minutes. All models get a heat pump for added efficiency in cold weather.
The interior features a 15.6″ rotating infotainment and a 10.25″ driver display. It’s also BYD’s first to feature DiPilot 100 “God’s Eye” ADAS.
The system includes 12 ultrasonic radars, five mm-wave radars, and 11 cameras for advanced drive-assist features.
BYD’s executive vice president, Stella Li, said the Sealion 7 “shows how BYD is reacting to customer demand and tastes,” in Europe. It will be BYD’s eighth to hit Europe following the Dolphin, Seal, and Seal U. Li expects the new electric SUV to “extend our reach” in the region.
At 4,830 mm long, 1,925 mm wide, and 1,620 mm tall, BYD’s new electric SUV is a direct rival to Tesla’s top-selling Model Y (4,760 mm long, 1,921 mm wide, and 1,624 mm tall).
BYD will begin deliveries in Europe before the end of the year. The UK will follow in early 2025. Although prices are yet to be announced, the electric SUV is expected to sit above the Seal, which starts at around 45,000 euros ($48,000).