After debuting at the 2024 Paris Auto Show, the BYD Sealion 7 SUV is now available for European buyers, marking the automaker’s eighth new energy vehicle (NEV)in the region, joining models like the Dolphin and Seal U.

Built on the e-Platform 3.0 Evo, the Sealion 7 electric SUV offers a dual-motor electric vehicle configuration, providing a powerful 523 horsepower and a range of 550 kilometers using an 82.56 kWh BYD Blade battery.

The vehicle can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and supports 230kW rapid charging. Prices start at £45,000 ($58,807).

Future plans include shifting production to BYD’s new Hungary electric vehicle production facility by 2025 to avoid EU tariffs, positioning the Sealion 7 SUV to become a major player among affordable electric SUVs in Europe.

However, the real test will be whether it can effectively challenge the Tesla Model Y in the European electric car market.