At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, held on January 10 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba City, BYD Auto Japan unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the SEALION 7. Set to launch in the Japanese market during the spring of 2025, this new SUV marks the company’s fourth electric vehicle (EV) offering for Japan, following the earlier successes of models like the ATTO 3 and DOLPHIN.
The SEALION 7 is positioned to compete directly with Tesla's Model Y, featuring the contemporary design principles established by BYD’s Ocean series. "The design of the SEALION 7 inherits the highly regarded aesthetics of our previous models, inspired by marine life. It stands out with its elegant appearance and high-quality interior," remarked Atsuki Higashifukuji, President of BYD Auto Japan, during the press conference.
Higashifukuji emphasized the significance of the SEALION 7 at the press conference, highlighting its advanced technology, including adaptive body control and cutting-edge driver assistance systems, which BYD has incorporated to assure safety and performance for drivers. The SUV boasts powerful motor configurations with options expected to include AWD with up to 530 horsepower, backed by battery variants ranging from 71.8 kWh to 91.3 kWh, depending on specifications.
With dimensions of 4830 mm long, 1925 mm wide, and 1620 mm high, the SEALION 7 will cater to the D-segment crossover SUV category, beneficially leveraging BYD's experience and consumer insights from past models. Notably, the vehicle's design highlights achieve not only driver comfort but also aesthetic appeal, promising to join the ranks of admired contemporary SUVs.
BYD's global sales numbers bolster the company’s confidence as it enters this competitive market, reportedly exceeding 4.2 million vehicles sold worldwide, marking over 41% growth from the previous year. "While 2024 saw challenges for EVs globally, BYD remains optimistic, with our two-pronged approach to BEVs and PHEVs enabling us to meet diverse market needs," stated Higashifukuji.
The SEALION 7's introduction is complemented by the debut of the limited edition SEAL Edition Pale Green vehicle, which celebrates BYD’s recent accolades including being chosen among the top 10 cars of the year. The special model, featuring the exclusive pale green coloring, will be available only as 30 limited units (20 RWD and 10 AWD variants) priced between 4.95 million and 5.72 million yen.
A key aspect of this special model is its association with BYD’s mission, described by Higashifukuji as reflecting their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility: "This car expresses our brand mission to reduce the Earth’s temperature by one degree."
Looking forward, BYD aims to not only bolster its standing within Japan’s EV sector but also to innovate continuously, inviting consumer feedback from the Auto Salon attendees and utilizing it to guide future developments. "We plan to roll out more new models within the year, enhancing our line-up and establishing stronger foundations for our business," Higashifukuji added.
Overall, the launch of the SEALION 7 signifies BYD Auto Japan's strategic initiatives to cement its role as a significant player within the rapidly growing EV market, offering high-quality vehicles aligned with the principles of modern design and sustainability.