After much teasing, the BYD Sealion 7 has been launched in Malaysia. The electric SUV is essentially BYD’s answer to the Tesla Model Y, and touted as a “performance SUV,” the Sealion 7 is the Chinese carmaker’s fifth model to enter our local market.
Two variants of the Sealion 7 are offered in Malaysia. The base Premium model is priced at RM183,800, while the higher-end, faster Performance trim goes for RM199,800. Given that the new BYD SUV is set to go against the Model Y, it’s worth comparing the dimensions of the two EVs. The Sealion 7 measures 4,830mm long, 1,925mm wide, and 1,620mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,930mm, making it longer than the Model Y, though it is not quite as wide.
Besides that, the main difference between the Performance and Premium variants of the Sealion 7 is…well, performance. The range-topping Performance version has a dual-motor setup with a combined output of 390kW (530PS) and 690Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0-100kmph in 4.5 seconds to a top speed of 215kmph. It also has a 82.5kWh battery that can provide up to 542km of range as measured on the optimistic NEDC cycle.
As for the more affordable Premium Sealion 7, it features a rear motor that does 230kW (313PS) and 380Nm of torque with a 0-100kmph time of 6.7 seconds. It has the same 215kmph top speed and 82.5kWh battery as the Performance model too, though the Premium trim has longer NEDC range of up to 567km on a single charge.
In terms of charging rates, both the Performance and Premium variants of the Sealion 7 support 150kW DC charging and 11kW AC charging.
To recap, the BYD Sealion 7 is priced at RM183,800 and RM199,800 for the Premium and Performance models respectively. Those who place a booking by 17 November (and register the EV by 31 December 2024) will even get a free home charger and RM800 charging credits. If you’re eager to test drive the electric SUV, you can do so from 15 to 17 November at The Exchange 106, Kuala Lumpur between 10AM to 6PM, though members of the public can continue to view the EV until 8PM.