KUALA LUMPUR: The BYD Sealion 7 performance SUV is launched today, adding to the brand's growing lineup in Malaysia.
BYD distributor Sime Darby Motors is offering the Tesla Model Y rival in two variants: Premium at RM184,500 (on-the-road without insurance) and Performance at RM200,500.
Malaysia is the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to introduce the Sealion 7. The launch was livestreamed to online viewers globally.
The flagship electric SUV promises to blend power, premium styling and cutting-edge technology in a single package.
Designed by BYD's global design director Wolfgang Egger, the Sealion 7 has a distinctive "Ocean X" front styling, low-slung bonnet, and sweeping fastback design, giving it a 0.28 drag coefficient.
The front features BYD's signature Double-U LED headlights, while the rear sports a Dynamic Water Drop LED taillight design.
The rear-wheel drive Premium version generates 230kW and 380Nm of torque, reaching 0-100kph in just 6.7 seconds, with a range of up to 567km (NEDC) per charge. Expect lower range under the more realistic WLTP cycle that has superseded the NEDC standard.
The higher-powered all-wheel drive Performance variant delivers 390kW and 690Nm of torque, sprinting from 0-100kph in only 4.5 seconds, while maintaining a range of 542km.
The Premium gets 19-inch wheels while the Performance has 20-inchers, which sets itself apart from the Premium with red brake callipers.
Both variants are powered by BYD’s proprietary Blade Battery of 82.5kWh capacity. The battery, using a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, is renowned for its safety, strength and longevity.
The Sealion 7 supports both AC (11kW) and DC fast charging (up to 150kW) and comes equipped with a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature, allowing the car to serve as a power source for external devices, from camping equipment to emergency backup systems.
It takes about 30 minutes to fast-charge the battery from 10%-80%. On the other hand, it takes 7.5 hours to charge from 0% to 100% using the 11kW AC charger.
The Sealion 7 in fact is the first BYD model to offer 11kW AC charging, while other existing models make do with the slower 7kW setup.
Safety remains a priority, with the Sealion 7 featuring a comprehensive suite of nine airbags, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.
A 360-degree camera system and parking sensors make navigating tight spaces effortless, while ISOFIX anchors ensure the safety of young passengers.
The SUV’s cabin includes a 15.6-inch customisable rotating touchscreen that integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing users to personalise their experience with changeable wallpapers and custom wake words.
The system is designed to understand multiple voice commands simultaneously, enhancing user convenience.
What's also a selling point is the Sealion 7's digital key functionality. This feature allows users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle using their smartphone, enhancing convenience and security. It is compatible with both Apple iPhones and select Android smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy Series and the Google Pixel Series.
Luxurious cabin, enhanced comfort
Stepping inside, passengers are treated to a refined, tech-savvy environment.
The Sealion 7's interior is decked out with quilted Nappa leather, heated and ventilated sports seats, and a panoramic sunroof spanning 21 square metres, filling the cabin with natural light.
The customisable ambient lighting system gets the better of the competition by offering 120 colour options to match any mood.
Music lovers can take advantage of the built-in karaoke app, transforming the Sealion 7 into a mobile entertainment hub.
In addition, the 12-speaker DYNAUDIO system promises an immersive sound experience that makes for a agreeable companion on long drives.
The Sealion 7 is available in four colours: Cosmos Black, Aurora White, Atlantis Grey and Shark Grey.
Exclusive offers
As part of the launch celebrations, BYD announced a special incentive program for its 11,000 loyal customers in Malaysia.
Those who wish to upgrade to the Sealion 7 can benefit from exclusive trade-in offers.
Additionally, "early bird" customers who book by Nov 17 will receive a complimentary home charger and RM800 worth of charging credits, provided they register their vehicles by Dec 31.
The incentive programe was also to mark BYD's second anniversary and being the No. 1 EV brand in Malaysia.
BYD has also expanded its support network, with 27 showrooms and service centres nationwide, aiming to surpass 30 locations by the end of 2024.
This extensive network is complemented by the BYD app, which offers users digital conveniences like real-time support and remote vehicle unlocking.
The model will be showcased from Nov 15-17 at The Exchange 106 here, where test drives are also available.
Looking ahead
BYD Malaysia managing director Eagle Zhao hinted at more exciting developments in the pipeline for 2025, as BYD continues to invest heavily in research and development, with allocations that exceed current revenue.
BYD's research-focused approach is expected to bring even more innovative models to the Malaysian market.
"With a current lineup that includes sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs and MPVs, we are excited to introduce the Sealion 7 — a performance SUV that combines power and premium styling with the comfort and versatility of an SUV," said Zhao.
"We believe the Sealion 7 will resonate strongly with the Malaysian market, offering an ideal option for drivers seeking thrilling performance without compromising comfort. This model sets a new standard for what an electric SUV can achieve.”
Besides the Sealion 7, BYD also sells the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal and M6 in Malaysia.
It would be interesting to see if the 2025 model lineup would include the Shark pick-up truck, a plug-in hybrid about the size of a Ford Ranger. We can only wait and see.
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