The BYD Sealion 7, the new 100% electric SUV coupe from the Chinese brand BYD, has finally landed in Spain, and it has done so with features that will undoubtedly be the talk of the town. This car, which measures 4.83 metres long, 1.93 metres wide and 1.62 metres high, not only stands out for its size and shape, but also because it is now ready to compete against its biggest rival in Europe: the Tesla Model Y. The Sealion 7 It is positioned as an interesting option for those looking for an electric SUV with good performance, extensive standard equipment and a range that can reach up to 502 km.
BYD has established itself in the European market with its electric models and continues to expand its product range to offer cars that combine design, performance and competitive prices. The main novelty? Sealion 7 is now available for pre-order, with a starting price that starts at 47.990 euros before aid, although it can be reduced up to 37.780 euros applying discounts and aid such as the MOVES III Plan.
BYD Sealion 7 Design and Dimensions
Designed on BYD's e-Platform 3.0, this electric SUV adopts a modern and very sporty aesthetic, with a coupé character that does not go unnoticed. Its roofline is descending, but without sacrificing interior space, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin for five occupants. In addition, Its 520-litre boot, which is complemented by a small 58-litre front box, offers more than enough capacity for everyday use.
Aesthetically, the Sealion 7 shares some features with other models in BYD's Ocean range, such as the distinctive LED headlights and the shape of the bonnet. However, the SUV is differentiated by details such as flush-mounted door handles and other aerodynamic elements, which make it more efficient on the road. As for colours, BYD has chosen to offer four body variants: Atlantis Grey, Indigo Grey, Polar White and Space Black.
Engines and performance
The BYD Sealion 7 will be available in three different versions, each with different mechanical configurations and trim levels:
- Comfort – This is the entry version, equipped with a single 313 hp electric motor and rear-wheel drive. Its range is 482 km thanks to an 82,5 kWh LFP Blade battery.
- AWD Design – It raises the bar with two electric motors that provide all-wheel drive and a power of 530 hp. The autonomy in this model is 456 km.
- Excellence AWD – The top-of-the-range version, also all-wheel drive, with a larger 91,3 kWh battery that allows reaching 502 km of autonomy.
One of the great advantages of the Sealion 7 compared to other electric models is its charging capacity. Thanks to a fast charging system that can reach up to 230 kW In the Excellence AWD version, the battery can be recharged from 10 to 80% in just 24 minutes. In addition, the Comfort and Design AWD versions allow charging at a maximum of 150 kW, which remains competitive within the segment.
Standard equipment and technology
In terms of equipment, the BYD Sealion 7 comes well armed to fight in the electric SUV segment. From the Comfort model, it has 15,6-inch central touch screen, heated seats, dual-zone climate control and a long list of driving assistants, such as adaptive cruise control, 360° camera system, traffic sign recognition, among others. The higher versions even include a Head-Up Display, 20-inch wheels and Nappa leather upholstery.
The Sealion 7's infotainment technology is advanced, featuring compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as offering online navigation and a sound system. Dynaudio with up to 12 speakersIt also features several customization options, such as switching the screen orientation between portrait and landscape, and ambient lighting adjustments.
Comparison with the Tesla Model Y
One of the most interesting points of the Sealion 7 is its competition with the Tesla Model Y, the benchmark electric SUV in Europe. Although the starting price of the BYD is higher than that of the Tesla (the Model Y starts at around 44.490 euros), the Chinese SUV offers greater power in the entry version (313 hp compared to the Model Y's 299 hp) and a slightly higher range (482 km compared to its rival's 455 km).
The BYD also has a competitive advantage in terms of equipment, as it includes many standard features that are only available in higher versions or as extras in the Tesla. However, the Model Y maintains an advantage in terms of trunk space., with a significantly higher load capacity than the Sealion 7 and a slightly more affordable overall price.
Images | BYD