BYD is coming for Tesla’s sweet spot in the mid-size electric SUV market with its new Sea Lion 07. Ahead of its official launch, BYD unveiled the Sea Lion 07’s luxurious interior. Check out the first images below.
Meet BYD’s newest mid-size electric SUV
We got our first glimpse of BYD’s new mid-size electric SUV in November at the 2023 Guangzhou International Auto Show.
Designed by Wolfgang Egger, an ex-Lamborghini and Audi designer, the Sea Lion 07 is arguably BYD’s sleekest electric SUV yet. It combines details from both iconic brands into an EV built for the modern era.
At 4,830 mm, 1,925 mm wide, and 1,620 mm tall, the Sea Lion 07 will directly compete against Tesla’s best-selling Model Y (4,760 mm long, 1,921 mm wide, and 1,624 mm tall).
The Sea Lion 07 is also slightly smaller than BYD’s other recently revealed mid-size Song L electric SUV.
Leaked info from China’s MIIT confirmed the mid-size electric will launch with three different powertrain options. The single-motor options include 170 kW (228 hp) or 230 kW (308 hp) max power, while the dual-motor version features up to 390 kW (523 hp) output.
BYD gives first look at new Sea Lion 07 interior
BYD officially shared the first look at its new Sea Lion 07 interior on social media Monday, which looks surprisingly luxurious.
As part of its Ocean series, the new SUV features a lightweight design that “highlights a new realm of individuality,” according to BYD. The smart curves “outline the beauty of the ocean.”
You can see the model has a lot more buttons and controls than the minimalist Tesla Model Y design. The driver display is also integrated into the dashboard.
The 15.6″ Adaptive Floating Screen is reminiscent of Tesla’s best-seller, but that’s also a BYD signature.
BYD’s Sea Lion 07 is decked out in leather from the seats to the door panels, steering wheels, and control panels. It will also feature a Dynaudio audio system.
Although BYD has yet to confirm, the Sea Lion 07 will likely be powered by its Blade Batteries. It will also be equipped with BYD’s e-platform 3.0, an 8-in-1 powertrain.
Yet to be confirmed, starting prices are suggested to be around 200,000 to 260,000 yuan ($28,000 to $35,900). After cutting prices, Tesla’s top-selling Model Y starts at 249,900 yuan ($34,500) in China.
Top comment by FC
The interior is pretty nice looking. I don’t love the exterior but it is better looking than a Y. I would like to see Tesla focus on expanding their lineup with additional models. Not everyone wants a 3/Y or can afford an S or X. There is a large market for more traditional styled SUVs that offer up more interior space and that could also offer up a third row of seats that didn’t position its occupants’ heads pressed up against the glass of the hatch.
The Long Range Model Y starts at 290,900 yuan ($40,150), while the Performance will cost 354,900 yuan ($49,000).
Tesla took back its global EV leader title after delivering over 386,000 EVs in Q1, compared to BYD’s just over 300,000.
Can the new Sea Lion 07, which is expected to launch any day, make a difference? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
Source: BYD
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