PARIS: BYD unveiled the Sealion 7, a mid-size electric SUV designed for the European market at the 2024 Paris Motor Show.
Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 Evo, which it shares with the Seal, the Sealion 7 targets rivals like Tesla’s Model Y.
It features rapid charging speeds of up to 230 kW, though battery options are yet to be confirmed. In China, where it is sold as the Sea Lion 07 EV, it comes in 71.8 kWh and 80.6 kWh battery choices, providing ranges of 548km and 611km under the more generous CLTC testing procedure. European specifications are still to come.
BYD plans to offer various configurations for the Sealion 7, including single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive versions.
The top-spec model is expected to feature 523 bhp and an Intelligent Torque Adaption Control system for improved handling and torque distribution between the wheels, reducing skidding. The European version will accelerate from 0-100kph in 4.5 seconds, slightly slower than the Chinese-market variant, which does it in 4.2 seconds.
Design-wise, the Sealion 7 continues BYD’s "X-faced" front motif, with slim U-shaped headlights, large air ducts, and a rear light bar.
The curvaceous exterior reflects the brand’s nautical theme, with a sleek design that stands out among electric SUVs like the Skoda Enyaq Coupe and Peugeot E-3008.
Inside, the cabin follows a similar theme with flowing shapes and features a large 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen at the centre. The SUV shares its gear selector panel with the Seal U SUV.
Pricing for the Sealion 7 is expected to start at around €60,000 (RM281,000), with deliveries planned by the end of 2024.
The Sealion 7 joins BYD’s growing lineup in Europe, which has expanded rapidly since the brand’s debut at the 2022 Paris Motor Show.
BYD continues to show strong growth in Europe, with seven models now available across the continent and plans for two local production facilities. The Sealion 7’s release underscores BYD’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge electric vehicles in Europe.
