The BYD Sealion 7, a mid-sized electric SUV, is slated to arrive in Australia in February 2025, expanding BYD's local lineup and challenging the Tesla Model Y along with other Chinese competitors. This launch represents BYD's strategic move to capture a larger share of the growing electric vehicle market in Australia.
Launch date: February 2025
Two powertrain options approved for Australia:
- Single-motor rear-wheel drive: 230kW
- Dual-motor all-wheel drive: 390kW total (160kW + 230kW)
Battery options:
- 82.5kWh or 91.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries
- WLTP range up to 502km for AWD models with larger battery
Charging capabilities:
- DC fast-charging up to 230kW for larger battery
- Up to 150kW for smaller battery
Performance:
- RWD: 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds
- AWD: 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds
Dimensions:
- Length: 4830mm
- Width: 1925mm
- Height: 1620mm
- Wheelbase: 2930mm
Towing capacity:
- RWD: 750kg
- AWD: 1500kg
The Sealion 7 will compete in a growing segment that includes:
- Tesla Model Y
- Xpeng G6
- Deepal S07
- Leapmotor C10
Additional features and specifications:
- 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Choice of 19-inch or 20-inch wheels
While pricing hasn't been confirmed, industry experts expect the Sealion 7 to be competitively positioned against the Tesla Model Y, which starts at $55,900 before on-road costs in Australia.
A sub-$60,000 starting price is likely for the BYD Sealion 7.David Smitherman, CEO of EV Direct (BYD's Australian importer), highlighted the importance of this segment, stating, "The vehicle that is coming will be a real benefit to the business and the team. It is where the market opportunities in Australia are."
The Sealion 7's arrival underscores the increasing competition in the electric SUV market, particularly from Chinese manufacturers targeting the popular mid-size segment. As BYD continues to expand its presence in Australia, the Sealion 7 could mark a significant uptick in the brand's popularity, offering a compelling alternative to established players in the EV market.
