The BYD Sealion 7, launched by the Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams), marks a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion into the premium electric SUV segment in India and beyond. Introduced in India on February 17, 2025, with deliveries commencing on March 7, 2025, this electric crossover blends cutting-edge technology, luxurious interiors, and robust performance, positioning it as a formidable contender in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Designed as the SUV counterpart to the popular BYD Seal sedan, the Sealion 7 adopts the brand’s signature “Ocean Aesthetics” design language, characterized by sleek, flowing lines and a coupe-like silhouette. It caters to buyers seeking a blend of family-friendly practicality, sports car-like performance, and eco-conscious engineering.
Built on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0, the Sealion 7 incorporates the innovative Blade Battery technology, known for its safety, efficiency, and longevity. With its launch, BYD aims to challenge established players in the premium EV segment while appealing to buyers in metro cities who prioritize advanced features, sustainability, and value for money. Available in two variants—Premium and Performance—the Sealion 7 offers versatility with rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, respectively. This detailed product overview explores the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the car, including its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The BYD Sealion 7 is engineered to deliver a balance of power, range, and efficiency, making it suitable for urban commutes and long-distance travel alike. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, compiled from reliable sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 8, 2025.
| Specification | Premium Variant | Performance Variant |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single Motor (RWD) | Dual Motor (AWD) |
| Battery Capacity | 82.56 kWh (Blade LFP) | 82.56 kWh (Blade LFP) |
| Power Output | 308 bhp (230 kW) | 523 bhp (390 kW) |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 690 Nm |
| Claimed Range (NEDC) | 567 km | 542 km |
| 0-100 kmph Acceleration | 6.7 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 210 kmph (approx.) | 230 kmph (approx.) |
| Charging (DC Fast Charging) | 150 kW (10-80% in 37 mins) | 150 kW (10-80% in 37 mins) |
| Charging (AC Home Charger) | 7 kW (11 hours for full charge) | 7 kW (11 hours for full charge) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4830 mm x 1925 mm x 1620 mm | 4830 mm x 1925 mm x 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm | 2930 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm | 170 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2340 kg | 2440 kg |
| Boot Space | 500 liters | 500 liters |
| Wheel Size | 19-inch alloy wheels | 20-inch alloy wheels |
| Tyre Size | F: 235/50 R19, R: 255/45 R19 | 245/45 R20 |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | MacPherson Strut / Multi-link | MacPherson Strut / Multi-link |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Disc | Ventilated Disc / Disc |
Note: Specifications are based on Indian market data from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale as of March 2025. Real-world range may vary depending on driving conditions.
Variants
The BYD Sealion 7 is offered in two distinct variants, each tailored to different buyer preferences. Below is a table summarizing the key differences between the Premium and Performance trims.
| Variant | Drivetrain | Power Output | Torque | Range (NEDC) | Wheel Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium | RWD | 308 bhp | 380 Nm | 567 km | 19-inch | Single motor, longer range, luxury-focused |
| Performance | AWD | 523 bhp | 690 Nm | 542 km | 20-inch | Dual motor, higher power, sportier dynamics |
Both variants share the same 82.56 kWh Blade Battery, feature set, and design elements, with the primary distinction being the drivetrain and performance capabilities.
Price in Metro Cities
The BYD Sealion 7 is priced competitively in India’s premium EV segment, with introductory ex-showroom prices announced on February 17, 2025. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices in major metro cities, factoring in ex-showroom cost, RTO, and insurance (approximate figures based on CarDekho and CarWale).
| City | Premium Variant (On-Road) | Performance Variant (On-Road) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹51.47 Lakh | ₹57.76 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹51.96 Lakh | ₹58.30 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹51.86 Lakh | ₹58.19 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹51.76 Lakh | ₹58.08 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹51.66 Lakh | ₹57.97 Lakh |
Note: On-road prices include ex-showroom price (₹48.90 Lakh for Premium, ₹54.90 Lakh for Performance), RTO (approx. ₹48,900), and insurance (approx. ₹2.08-2.30 Lakh). Prices may vary slightly due to local taxes or dealer offers.
About the BYD Sealion 7
Design and Styling
The BYD Sealion 7 embodies BYD’s “Ocean Aesthetics” philosophy, drawing inspiration from marine life with its smooth, flowing lines and sleek profile. Measuring 4830 mm in length, 1925 mm in width, and 1620 mm in height, it’s a sizable SUV that exudes road presence. The coupe-like roofline, tapering towards the rear, gives it a sporty stance, distinguishing it from traditional boxy SUVs. At the front, the Sealion 7 features sweptback LED headlights paired with LED daytime running lights (DRLs), creating a sharp, aggressive fascia reminiscent of the BYD Seal sedan. The grille is blanked off, typical of EVs, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.
From the side, the flush door handles pop out electronically, contributing to a clean, modern look, while the flared wheel arches and black cladding add a rugged touch. The 19-inch (Premium) or 20-inch (Performance) alloy wheels fill the arches handsomely, with red brake calipers on the Performance variant adding a sporty flair. At the rear, wraparound LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar create a futuristic aesthetic, complemented by a dual-tone bumper and a roof spoiler. Available in four striking colors—Aurora White, Cosmos Black, Shark Grey, and Atlantis Grey—the Sealion 7 appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Interior and Features
Step inside the BYD Sealion 7, and you’re greeted by a luxurious, tech-laden cabin that rivals premium German brands. The dashboard is dominated by a 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen infotainment system, a hallmark of BYD’s design, which supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This screen can pivot between landscape and portrait modes, enhancing usability for navigation or media. A 10.25-inch digital driver’s display provides crisp, detailed information, though some reviewers note its cluttered layout can be distracting. A heads-up display (HUD) further aids the driver by projecting key data onto the windshield.
The interior is upholstered in black leatherette, with the front seats offering 8-way electrical adjustment for the driver (with memory function) and 6-way adjustment for the co-driver. Both seats are ventilated and heated, ensuring comfort in varying climates. The cabin feels spacious, thanks to a 2930 mm wheelbase, providing ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers. A panoramic glass roof with a powered blind floods the interior with light, while 128-color ambient lighting adds a touch of sophistication. Rear privacy glass and a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system elevate the experience further.
Practicality isn’t overlooked, with 500 liters of boot space and a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function that allows the car to power external devices. The center console houses a 50W wireless charger with cooling, dual cupholders, and a crystal-like gear selector, blending functionality with style. Other highlights include dual-zone automatic climate control, a 360-degree camera, and a powered tailgate with gesture control.
Performance and Driving Experience
The BYD Sealion 7 offers two powertrain options, each delivering a distinct driving experience. The Premium variant, with its single rear motor, produces 308 bhp and 380 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in 6.7 seconds. It’s tuned for efficiency, boasting a claimed range of 567 km (NEDC), making it ideal for long drives. The Performance variant, equipped with dual motors and AWD, ups the ante with 523 bhp and 690 Nm, achieving 0-100 kmph in a blistering 4.5 seconds. Its range dips slightly to 542 km, but the trade-off is sports car-like acceleration and superior grip.
Both variants use BYD’s Blade Battery, a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) unit renowned for its thermal stability and durability. Charging is impressive, with 150 kW DC fast charging taking the battery from 10-80% in 37 minutes. The standard 7 kW AC charger, however, is slower, requiring about 11 hours for a full charge—a minor drawback for a battery this size. Real-world range tests suggest over 500 km is achievable, depending on driving conditions and mode (Eco, Normal, Sport, or Snow).
The Sealion 7’s suspension—MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear—strikes a balance between comfort and control. On smooth roads, body movement is minimal, but over rough patches, the firm setup transmits some impact into the cabin, particularly with the 20-inch wheels on the Performance trim. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver despite its size, though it lacks the sporty feedback some rivals offer. Braking, with ventilated discs upfront, requires adaptation due to the regenerative braking system, which offers Standard and High settings but lacks a single-pedal mode.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a strong suit for the BYD Sealion 7, with 11 airbags as standard across both variants—an impressive tally for its class. It includes a Level 2 ADAS suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a Driver Monitoring System that tracks eye movements to detect fatigue. Additional aids like a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts enhance its family-friendly appeal. While it hasn’t been crash-tested by Global NCAP yet, BYD’s track record (e.g., the Seal’s 5-star Euro NCAP rating) suggests robust safety credentials.
The car’s tech extends beyond safety, with features like dynamic ambient lighting, a gesture-controlled tailgate, and seamless smartphone integration. The ADAS system, while advanced, can occasionally issue unnecessary alerts, a quirk noted in early reviews.
Market Positioning and Reception
Since its launch, the BYD Sealion 7 has garnered significant attention, achieving over 1,000 bookings within days, as reported by CarWale. Priced between ₹48.90 Lakh and ₹54.90 Lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts many imported luxury EVs while offering comparable features and performance. In metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where EV adoption is accelerating, the Sealion 7 appeals to buyers seeking a premium yet affordable alternative to German marques. Its blend of luxury, technology, and electric efficiency has earned praise, though some critics point to BYD’s limited brand cachet and the absence of a softer ride option as potential drawbacks.
Close Competitors
The BYD Sealion 7 competes in a crowded premium EV SUV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Price: ₹46.05 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Power: 214 bhp (single motor) / 321 bhp (dual motor)
- Range: 631 km (MIDC)
- Key Advantage: Locally assembled, longer range, softer ride.
- Drawback: Less power than Sealion 7 Performance, fewer airbags.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a strong contender with its retro-modern design and competitive pricing. Its range exceeds the Sealion 7’s, but it lags in power and safety features.
Kia EV6
- Price: ₹60.97 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Power: 225 bhp (RWD) / 321 bhp (AWD)
- Range: 708 km (WLTP, claimed)
- Key Advantage: Sportier handling, premium brand perception.
- Drawback: Higher price, smaller boot (490L).
The Kia EV6 offers sharper dynamics and a longer claimed range, but its steeper price and tighter interior space make the Sealion 7 a better value proposition.
BMW iX1 LWB
- Price: ₹49.00 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Power: 308 bhp
- Range: 440-475 km (WLTP)
- Key Advantage: BMW badge, refined ride.
- Drawback: Shorter range, higher maintenance costs.
The BMW iX1 LWB brings luxury pedigree but falls short on range and power compared to the Sealion 7 Performance, though it appeals to brand-conscious buyers.
Volvo EX40
- Price: ₹56.10 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Power: 402 bhp
- Range: 475 km (WLTP)
- Key Advantage: Scandinavian design, strong safety.
- Drawback: Imported, costlier, less range.
The Volvo EX40 matches the Sealion 7 in safety but is pricier and offers less range, making BYD’s offering more accessible.
Final Thoughts!
The BYD Sealion 7 stands out as a compelling package in the premium EV SUV market. Its combination of powerful performance, luxurious features, and competitive pricing positions it as a viable alternative to both mainstream and luxury competitors. While it lacks the brand prestige of BMW or Volvo, its value-for-money proposition, advanced technology, and robust safety features make it a standout choice for metro city buyers in 2025. Whether you prioritize range (Premium) or performance (Performance), the Sealion 7 delivers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to ignore.
