BYD’s Tesla Model Y-fighting Sealion 7 has landed on Australian shores, offering buyers an all-electric SUV at competitive prices aimed explicitly at dominating the market. The vehicle is available now with two variants: the Premium model, starting at $54,990, and the Performance variant priced at $63,990. These figures put the Sealion 7 comfortably below its key rival, the Tesla Model Y, which retails at $63,400 for its rear-wheel-drive variant.
Intended as more than just another EV, the BYD Sealion 7 is packed with features aimed at enticing Australian consumers. Both models come standard with luxurious leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and impressive technology, including a gigantic 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities. A 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system serves as the audio experience for the high-tech cabin, marked by its ample spaciousness and creature comforts.
Powering the Sealion 7 is BYD's advanced Blade battery technology, featuring an 82.56kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The Premium model offers 230 kW and 380 Nm of torque with its rear-mounted electric motor, reaching 0-100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. On the other hand, the Performance variant, with its dual-motor setup, produces 390 kW and 690 Nm of torque and can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The driving ranges are equally appealing, with 482 km available for the Premium and 456 km for the Performance on the WLTP scale.
According to reports, the Sealion’s launch puts it against not only Tesla’s Model Y but also newcomers from within the Chinese market like the Xpeng G6, Deepal S07, and Leapmotor C10. This growing competitive set has led to BYD positioning itself as the second most popular electric vehicle brand down under, with aspirations to surpass even the top-tier brands traditionally associated with luxury.
The competitive pricing strategy aims to draw customers away from both Tesla and established brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. "We have such a strong reputation for bringing affordable luxury to Australia, and the Sealion 7 is special - this is our first premium luxury SUV," stated Luke Todd of EV Direct. This speaks to BYD’s commitment to reshaping its image from merely being seen as another electric car maker to becoming synonymous with affordable luxury.
Measuring 4,830 mm long, 1,925 mm wide, and 1,620 mm high, the Sealion 7 makes good use of its physical dimensions for both aesthetics and practicality. It provides 500 litres of luggage space—a boon for families—along with an additional 58 litres of frunk space. The SUV's stylish design is accentuated by available colors like Atlantis Grey, Cosmos Black, Aurora White, and Shark Grey, communicating both presence and allure.
Safety is another cornerstone of the Sealion 7’s appeal. It is equipped with cutting-edge safety features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and several chaotic surveillance aids such as dual-front airbags and side airbags across both rows. These systems hold the promise of protected travel for families, adding peace of mind for potential buyers.
Prospective buyers will find the diverse range of both models appealing, with standard features including 19-inch alloy wheels for the Premium and upgraded 20-inch wheels for the Performance, creating not only visual prestige but also efficient handling dynamics. While early models have yet to undergo tests by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, the comprehensive safety features integrated should ideally render it competitive on the ratings’ front.
Further enhancing its appeal is BYD’s six-year, 150,000 km vehicle warranty and eight-year, 160,000 km battery warranty. These offerings mark BYD’s assurance of reliability and consumer confidence, particularly important for new entrants within the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
With orders already open, the BYD Sealion 7 is expected to attract significant attention within the coming weeks as it officially launches. Its pricing strategy could spark price wars among competitors, altering the electric SUV marketplace significantly. Whether it can maintain its competitive edge amid such fierce rivalry remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: BYD is making waves.
Deliveries for the 2025 BYD Sealion 7 are slated to begin shortly after the official launch, making it one of the most anticipated releases for Australian consumers this year. This extensive rollout signifies BYD's commitment to establishing itself within the electric vehicle segment alongside chief competitors. With significant features, competitive pricing, and stylish design—the Sealion 7 is poised to make its mark.