The Chinese manufacturer BYD has entered the European market with its new BYD Sealion 7 model, directly challenging Tesla's Model Y. The Sealion 7 is a medium-sized electric SUV that combines modern design, advanced technology and a competitive price.
BYD Sealion The 7 measures 4,830 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width and 1,620 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,930 mm. This puts it directly alongside the Tesla Model Y, which is slightly shorter but has comparable dimensions. The trunk offers 520 liters of spacea, which increases to 1,789 liters when the seats are folded down, and a 58-liter front trunk is also available.
Entry model BYD Sealion 7 it is equipped with one electric motor and an 82.5 kWh battery, which enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. More advanced versions with two engines and a 91.3 kWh battery reach a power of up to 390 kW (523 hp) and an acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The maximum speed is limited to 215 km/h.
The Sealion 7 uses BYD's own developed 8-in-1 rear-axle drive unit, which also includes an on-board charger. In four-wheel drive models, a simpler 3-in-1 system with an induction motor is installed on the front axle. The Sealion 7 comes with two battery options: 82 kWh and 91 kWh. Both use LFP chemistry, which is more durable and less sensitive to charge status, which is a big plus for buyers. The charging speed is impressive - with a power of up to 230kW, it allows reaching 80 % in just 24-32 minutes.
Inside, the BYD Sealion 7 offers a spacious and luxurious cabin with an advanced information system and high-quality materials. The focus is on comfort and user experience, which puts it alongside its European competitors. The Sealion 7 stands out with its 15.6-inch rotating display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — features that Tesla still steadfastly ignores. The head-up display, classic gauges and physical buttons will satisfy fans of traditional car interfaces.
In Europe, prices for the BYD Sealion 7 start at about 47,990 euros (up to 58,990 euros), which is about 61 % more than in the Chinese market, where the price starts at 26,000 euros. Nevertheless, it remains price competitive on the European market.
By comparison, the Tesla Model Y in Germany costs from €44,990 for the base version with rear-wheel drive. The Sealion 7 is equipped with BYD's Blade battery, which enables fast charging with a power of up to 230 kW, which ensures shorter charging times and a longer range. BYD's entry into the European market with the Sealion 7 model brings freshness and additional competition to the electric SUV segment, which will primarily benefit consumers.
Conclusion: BYD Sealion 7 is an impressive contender Tesla Model Y. While Model Y still a leader in energy efficiency and range, the Sealion 7 brings better equipment, more comfort and a more traditional approach to technology.
In the battle between efficiency and luxury, the decision comes down to your personal priorities. If you value technological simplicity and comfort, the Sealion 7 could be your next electric SUV. Otherwise, Tesla Model Y remains difficult to overcome. Which would be your choice?
