The BYD Sealion 7 was officially revealed at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, marking its European debut. This all-electric SUV is designed to compete with models like the Porsche Macan and Audi Q6 e-Tron. It features BYD's Blade battery technology and a dual-motor setup capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. The Sealion 7 can charge at up to 230kW and includes a heat pump. We can expect Sales in Europe will begin in late October 2024, with deliveries expected by the end of the year! This electric SUV not only offers power but also practicality, with spacious interiors and a heat pump for enhanced efficiency in colder climates. The Sealion 7 shares some elements with BYD’s Seal sedan but stands out as an elevated and rugged version, perfect for families or adventurers who seek both performance and comfort.
The SEALION 7 takes the Ocean Series design language, seen on models like the DOLPHIN hatchback and SEAL sedan, and adapts it to a sporty SUV body style. The result is a car boasting a powerful and athletic stance, but also an extremely efficient shape that helps to deliver impressive range from its Blade Battery.
The front of the SEALION 7 incorporates a ‘X face’ motif, familiar from other Ocean Series models, and is designed to have a sense of forward motion to reflect the SEALION 7’s dynamic prowess. Yet the Ocean theme is retained through the use of Dual U ‘floating’ LED headlights and deeply sculpted curves that echo the motion of waves. The side profile is smooth yet poised, with the low front countered by a rounded roof and dramatic fastback that’s punctuated by a subtle ducktail rear spoiler. Further back, there’s a muscular haunch over the rear wheel to reflect the SEALION 7’s performance potential and dynamic focus, and then a full-width light signature across the tailgate that includes the latest evolution of the Ocean Series ‘water-drop’ fail-lights.
The SEALION 7’s raised SUV design helps to deliver outstanding cabin space and practicality, making it particularly relevant to European customers. Its overall length of 4,830mm and a long wheelbase measuring 2,930mm (10mm longer than even the BYD SEAL), plus the e-Platform 3.0’s completely flat rear floor, create comfortable amounts of space in the cabin for five adults. The Cell-to-Body construction and the compact Blade Battery mean the floor remains relatively thin for such a high-range EV, allowing generous amounts of headroom.
Appropriately for an Ocean Series model, the SEALION 7’s dashboard treatment has a nautical theme, blending BYD’s typical high technology with flowing shapes and a double layer centre console for airy sophistication. Even the door handles are designed to give the feeling of a ‘floating wing’. Best-in-class, high-quality materials feature throughout, with vegan or Nappa leather upholstery, depending on the trim level. Two interior colour treatments are available, complementing the four exterior shades that will be offered.