BYD Sealion 7: The Chinese Tesla Model Y is here!
As stated in the preamble, BYD is aiming to outdo the Tesla Model Y with its new Sealion 7, being theone of the 6 electric vehicles that the brand plans to market in Europe by the end of 2025.
This Chinese model, unveiled at the 2024 Paris Motor ShowWith its impressive technical features and competitive price, the new BYD is a serious alternative to the Model Y. Positioned as a serious alternative to the Model Y, it reflects the rise of BYD, now the world's second-largest manufacturer of electric vehicles.
Read more : Paris Motor Show 2024: the new electric cars to come
The Sealion 7sea lion"is part of BYD's range of maritime-themed vehicles, just like the Dolphin and Seal. Designed under the direction of Wolfgang Egger, head of global design at BYD, this vehicle occupies a between a traditional SUV and a crossover.
An imposing size and assertive styling for the future electric SUV
The silhouette of the Sealion 7, or "sea lion"in French, evoking a large hatchback, places it in the electric SUV coupe categorywhile maintaining a appreciable practicality for a family car.
With a Longer wheelbase and overall length increased by 8 cm than its American counterpart, offering roomier interior for passengers and luggage.
What's more, its exterior design, inspired by the "OCEAN X"presents a dynamic, sporty designreinforced by a distinctive radiator grille, a sloping roofline and sculpted headlights underlining its modern character.
Measuring 4.83 metres long and 2.93 metres wheelbaseThis electric SUV is positioned as a serious competitor to the Tesla Model Y and other SUVs in the segment, such as the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron.
To consult : New Audi A6 e-tron: up to 757 km of driving pleasureautonomy
Inside this electric vehicle, it's important to note that the Sealion 7's seats are distinguished by a quilted Nappa leathersupplemented by supple vegetable leathercovering 80 % of the passenger compartment. In addition, the Sealion 7 is equipped with a panoramic glass roof with electric coverwhich is not available on the Model Y, for example.
If you'd like to find out more about this long-range American competitor, Beev has produced an essay, which can be viewed below.
In short, this a blend of elegance and functionality could well appeal to buyers looking for an electric SUV that combines style and practicality.
On-board technologies for BYD's new electric SUV: An innovative driving experience
Sealion 7 uses the e-platform 3.0 Evo from BYD, incorporating the famous battery Blade. It features the dual-gun technologywhich doubles charging speed via 2 ports. With a 240 kW standard powerthis capacity could reach around 500 kWa level usually reserved for heavy vehicles.
💡Did you know ? Unlike conventional systems, the Blade battery is directly integrated into the vehicle's structure, with its top cover serving as a floor for the passenger compartment.
It stands out for its technology Cell-to-Body (CTB). This advance offers a number of advantages, including
- enhanced safety,
- increased torsional rigidity,
- and optimised use of interior space.
The interior of the Sealion 7 impresses with its on-board technology, including a large central screen from 15.6 inches and futuristic curves which immediately attract the attention of passengers.
What's more, BYD has managed to maintain a good balance between the physical controls and the infotainment screen, offering enough buttons to avoid tedious navigation through the virtual menus.
Read more : Touch screens on electric cars: a good idea or a bad one?
BYD Sealion 7 performance: Competing with Tesla on technical grounds
BYD claims performance comparable to that of the sportiest electric vehicles on the market. In its top-of-the-range version, with 2 motors and a intelligent all-wheel driveThis SUV is said to be capable of reaching 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 secondswith a maximum speed of 215 km/h for 23,000 rpm.
Once again, the Sealion 7 has nothing to envy its American rival. With an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds for its 4-wheel drive versionsIt is a formidable opponent in the field of electrical performance.
But that's not all: the Sealion 7's real strength lies in its advanced charging technology. Thanks to its 800 volt systemIt can go from 10 to 80 % in just 25 minuteswith a impressive maximum charging power of 240 kW.
Note that few technical details revealed at the Paris Motor Showbut in comparison with 72 to 81 kWh batteries for the model already on sale in Chinathe European version of the Sealion 7 is set to benefit from a capacity of 91.3 kWh. This should ensure 610 km according to the Chinese CLTC cycleor approximately 550 km WLTP range.
In other words, autonomy also promises to appeal to European consumers looking for an alternative to Tesla.
What price can we expect for this Chinese competitor to the Tesla Model Y?
BYD Sealion 7 is set to make its arrival official this autumn, while promising a competitive price positioning in the electric SUV market. Although the accurate pricing information has not yet been confirmedWith the new model, BYD is likely to opt for a similar strategy to that adopted with its other models, offering attractive value for money. Indeed, the Sealion 7 should be slightly below the Tesla Model Ywhose starting price around €42,990. BYD could thus attract consumers looking for an affordable alternative with comparable performance.
Added to this is the possibility that the Sealion 7 will be offered with several battery optionsBYD's new e-tron SUV will be available in a range of models, allowing buyers to modulate their investment according to their needs in terms of autonomy and equipment. Aiming to compete not only with Tesla, but also with other brands such as Audi with the Q6 e-tron, BYD is banking on a price that will make this SUV more accessible to a wide audience, while offering modern design and cutting-edge technology.
BYD Sealion 7 and Tesla Model Y: Comparison of technical specifications
To give you a concrete idea of the technical differences between the two models highlighted throughout this article, here is a table highlighting the Chinese and American electric vehicles:
| Caractéristiques techniques | BYD Sealion 7 | Tesla Model Y |
|---|---|---|
Length | 4,83 m | 4,75 m |
Width | 1,92 m | 1,92 m |
Height | 1,62 m | 1,62 m |
Wheelbase | 2,93 m | 2,89 m |
Battery capacity | 91.3 kWh | 60 kWh |
Autonomy (WLTP cycle) | about 550 km | 455 km |
Quick charge (10% - 80%) | 25 minutes | 13 minutes |
Maximum speed | 215 km/h | 217 km/h |
0 to 100 km/h | 4.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
Central screen | 15.6 inches | 15 inches |
Conclusion
Le BYD Sealion 7 embodies the rise of Chinese electric SUVs on the European marketwith features that rival those of the Tesla Model Y.
Whether in terms of design, range or technology, BYD is demonstrating its ability to offer a credible and competitive alternative. For drivers looking for advanced electric performance and attractive value for money, the Sealion 7 is a serious choice.
If you're thinking of going electric, Beev can help you every step of the way, from choosing the right model to installing a home charging point. Find out how we can help you make the switch to electric and make your driving experience even more enjoyable.
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