If you’re hunting for an electric SUV that blends space, tech, and price, the BYD Sealion 7 deserves a spot on your list. BYD, China’s biggest EV maker, built the Sealion 7 to compete with the likes of Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5, but it keeps the cost lower while adding a few surprising comforts.
First off, the design is practical, not flashy. The boxy shape means you get generous headroom and a cargo area that rivals many midsize SUVs. The sharp LED headlights and a subtle chrome‑accented grille give it a modern look without looking over‑styled. Inside, you’ll find a 12.8‑inch touchscreen that runs BYD’s DiLink system, which supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a suite of voice‑controlled functions.
The heart of the Sealion 7 is a 150 kW (about 200 hp) permanent‑magnet motor paired with a 75 kWh lithium‑iron‑phosphate (LFP) battery. BYD’s Blade battery tech is known for safety – it resists punctures and thermal runaway better than most. On a single charge, you can expect roughly 350 km (217 mi) under mixed driving, enough for daily commutes and weekend trips.
Charging is straightforward. A 7.4 kW AC wall charger fills the battery from 0‑80 % in about an hour, while a DC fast‑charge port can hit 80 % in roughly 30 minutes at 120 kW. If you have access to home solar, the LFP cells work well with solar inverters, letting you top‑up for free on sunny days.
The Sealion 7 comes in three trims: Standard, Premium, and Luxury. Prices start around $32,990 for the base model and climb to $41,500 for the fully loaded Luxury version. The biggest upgrades in the higher trims are leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and an upgraded 15‑speaker sound system.
When shopping, check for local incentives. Many states still offer $2,500‑$5,000 rebates for LFP‑based EVs, and some utilities give free home charger installations. Also, BYD often bundles a five‑year battery warranty, which is a solid safety net if you plan to keep the SUV for a while.Maintenance on the Sealion 7 is low. Because it’s an EV, there’s no oil, no spark plugs, and the brake pads last longer thanks to regenerative braking. A yearly check of the battery’s health and tire rotation should keep it running smoothly.
Overall, the BYD Sealion 7 packs a lot of value: decent range, safe battery tech, roomy interior, and a price tag that undercuts many rivals. If you want an electric SUV that feels spacious, tech‑savvy, and reliable without breaking the bank, the Sealion 7 is worth a test drive.