China's EV giant is all set to launch its new secret weapon on the world stage. With the arrival of the new Sealion 7 in Europe, BYD expects sales to grow rapidly. BYD's new mid-size electric SUV will challenge Europe's best-selling EVs, including the Tesla Model Y.
After unveiling a new mid-size electric SUV at the Paris Motor Show last month, the BYD Sealion 7 stole the show.
BYD chief designer Wolfgang Egger said the new model is “more than just a simple SUV.” “It's an expression of a special way of life.”
Egger is known for his iconic designs for Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, and Audi models. He is also kind of an expert in attracting European customers, something BYD hopes to do.
You can see the influence of his past designs with the sleek, flowing character lines and aerodynamic profile. With an extended wheelbase, the sporty-looking electric SUV also has a spacious interior loaded with BYD's latest software and connectivity technology.
The Sealion is the first EV to ride its upgraded Platform 3.0 Evo, which BYD promises will enable faster charging and better performance.
BYD is preparing a new electric SUV to compete with Europe's top sellers
Now, we're getting a better idea of what that functionality will look like. According to recently released information (via AutoCar), the mid-size electric SUV will have a range of up to 312 miles in Europe.
With an 82.5 kWh battery, the base Sealion 7 Comfort trim will get a range of 300 miles. The RWD model has a single electric motor with 308 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.
The Design trim adds another engine up front for AWD and up to 523 hp and 509 lb-ft of torque. However, the extra engine reduces its range to 283 miles.
At the top of the list is the Excellence trim. It features the same 523 hp powertrain but gains a larger 91.3 kWh battery for a range of up to 312 miles. The Comfort and Design models can charge from 10% to 80% in 32 minutes, while the Excellence trim reduces it to 24 minutes. All models get a heat pump for better performance in cold weather.
Inside it has a 15.6″ rotating infotainment and a 10.25″ driver display. It is also BYD's first to feature the DiPilot 100 “God's Eye” ADAS.
The system includes 12 ultrasonic radars, five mm-wave radars, and 11 cameras for advanced driver assistance features.
BYD's senior vice president, Stella Li, said the Sealion 7 “shows how BYD responds to customers' needs and preferences,” 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 “expand our reach” in the region.
At 4,830 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height, BYD's new electric SUV is a direct competitor to Tesla's best-selling Model Y (4,760 mm in length, 1,921 mm in width, and 1,624 mm in length).
BYD will begin deliveries in Europe before the end of the year. The UK will follow in early 2025. Although prices have not yet been announced, the electric SUV is expected to cost more than the Seal, which starts at around 45,000 euros ($48,000).
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