Set to hit UK roads in just a few weeks, the BYD Sealion 7 aims to take on the Tesla Model Y. The question is, which one will you prefer?
Battery and Range
The BYD Sealion 7's Comfort RWD and Design AWD models are equipped with an 82.5kWh battery, providing ranges of 298 miles and 282 miles, respectively. The top-tier Excellence AWD boasts a 91.3kWh battery, delivering a range of 311 miles (WLTP).
Whereas, the Tesla Model Y features a 92kWh battery across its variants. The entry-level RWD variant provides up to 283miles (WLTP) while the Long Range AWD provides 331 miles and the Performance variant reaches up to 319 miles (WLTP). The best model Y for range? The Long Range RWD, providing up to 373 miles WLTP.
Charging
Out of the two, the Sealion 7 is slower to charge. All Model Y variants can charge at speeds of up to 250kW, achieving a 0-80% charge in just 25 minutes. In contrast, the BYD Sealion 7 models that feature the 82.5kWh battery can only reach 150kW speeds, while the Excellence AWD can achieve 230kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in approximately 24 minutes.
Performance
The Tesla Model Y offers three variants. The entry-level Long Range RWD produces 347bhp and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds. The Long Range AWD generates 384bhp and completes the same sprint in 4.8 seconds, while the Performance variant boasts 426bhp and zips from 0-62 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds.
On the other hand, the BYD Sealion entry-level Comfort RWD delivers 308bhp with a 0-62 mph time of 6.7 seconds, while both the Design AWD and Excellence AWD come with 522bhp and achieve 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Size
The two SUVs are quite similar in size:
- Tesla Model Y: 4,750mm (L), 1,920mm (W), 1,624mm (H) 854 litres (boot), 117 litres (frunk)
- BYD Sealion 7: 4,830mm (L), 1,925mm (W), 1,620mm (H) 520 litres (boot), 58 litres (frunk)
Design
The Model Y showcases a minimalist and elegant design, featuring smooth, aerodynamic curves and a clean, grille-less front. In the Uk the Model Y is available in five colours; Pearl White, Solid Black, Deep Blue Metallic, Midnight Cherry Red and Quicksilver.
In contrast, the BYD Sealion 7 presents a more dynamic and aggressive appearance, characterised by a bold front grille, sharp lines, and a more angular profile. At launch, we expect the BYD Sealion 7 to be available in five colours; Polar White, Space Black, Alanis Grey Ice Blue, Indigo Grey and Shadow Green.
Cabin
In the BYD Sealion 7, The front cabin mirrors the exterior's aesthetic, defined by sleek, simple lines and plush surfaces throughout, soft vegan leather envelops over 80% of the interior.
You can relax in premium quilted Nappa leather seats, equipped with ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats, and an adjustable driver's seat featuring electric lumbar and leg support. Additionally, it boasts a 128-color ambient lighting system, an a panoramic glass sunroof.
The drive selector is an elegant cut-diamond design, accompanied by surrounding buttons for essential functions such as windscreen demisting, volume control, and driving mode selection.
The Sealion 7 is also equipped with a generous 15.6-inch central touchscreen that can seamlessly switch between portrait and landscape orientations, a signature feature from BYD. It includes a digital instrument panel and a heads-up display conveniently positioned behind the steering wheel.
Tesla Model Y's spacious interior that boasts a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. High-quality materials are utilised throughout, featuring soft-touch surfaces and minimal chrome accents. Sustainability is a central theme, with eco-friendly vegan leather upholstery.
Ambient lighting enhances the cabin's calming atmosphere, while the panoramic glass roof invites natural light, creating an open and airy ambiance.
A prominent 15-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, managing most vehicle functions, such as navigation, media, climate controls, and seat adjustments.
Tech
The BYD Sealion 7 features an advanced intelligent cockpit, driven by a state-of-the-art chipset. With four-zone voice control and seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Unlock your car with just a tap using the BYD NFC-enabled card or BYD app, and grant family members access even when you're not there. The remote A/C control allows you to pre-condition the cabin from your smartphone, ensuring the perfect temperature before you enter.
The Model Y features a premium audio system for an immersive listening experience, wireless charging pads, and multiple USB ports for devices. Voice recognition technology enables hands-free management of functions, while Bluetooth allows for hands-free calls and music streaming. Wi-Fi connectivity supports software updates and internet browsing, including streaming services like Spotify.
The Tesla app allows remote control of vehicle functions such as starting the car, adjusting climate settings, locating the vehicle, locking/unlocking doors, and checking battery status.
Other Comparisons
Towing: Tesla Model Y=1600kg | BYD Sealion 7 = 750kg
Seats: Tesla Model Y = 5 / 7 | BYD Sealion 7 = 5
Top speed: Tesla Model Y = 134mph | BYD Sealion 7 =133mph
Cost
Pricing is fairly similar, the Sealion 7 has a starting price of £44,990 for the rear-wheel drive Comfort model, £49,290 for the mid-range Design trim, and goes up to £57,290 for the Excellence model featuring dual electric motors.
The Tesla Model Y begins at £46,990 for the RWD variant and peaks at £59,990 for the Performance version. Additionally, the Long Range AWD is available starting at £51,990.