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Unveiling the BYD Sea Lion 7 at Manila International Auto Show
When the Manila International Auto Show wrapped up, the spotlight turned to a vehicle that had been shrouded in secrecy: the BYD Sea Lion 7. While the brand had teased its price, specifications, and interior design, the full reveal came only now, offering a comprehensive look at what makes this electric crossover a standout in a crowded market.
Design and Exterior
The Sea Lion 7’s exterior is the brainchild of former Alfa Romeo and Audi designer Wolf Gang Edgar. He transformed the sleek Seal sedan into a muscular crossover, giving it a bold, fastback roofline and a distinctive U‑shaped LED headlamp arrangement. The front clip sits above open air intakes that stay open for cooling, while flush door handles and a carefully sculpted side profile reduce drag. With 160 mm of ground clearance and 20‑inch Michelin Pilot Sports tires, the vehicle balances performance with everyday practicality.
Power tailgate access opens to a generous 500 litres of cargo space, which expands to 1,700 litres when the second row is folded flat. The frunk adds another 58 litres, making the Sea Lion 7 one of the most versatile crossovers in its class.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, leather dominates the cabin, and the seats offer six‑way power adjustments with ventilation for both driver and passenger. The layout prioritises comfort: ample knee and headroom, a panoramic roof that can be closed, and a host of storage pockets that pop out like magic. Two USB‑C charging points, a 50‑watt wireless charger, and an NFC card slot eliminate the need for a physical key.
The driver’s area features a 10‑inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 15‑plus‑inch infotainment touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A heads‑up display keeps the driver’s eyes on the road, while a 12‑speaker sound system delivers a satisfying audio experience.
Powertrain and Performance
The Sea Lion 7 is powered by two electric motors that drive all wheels, backed by an 82.6‑kWh battery. The combined output reaches 533 horsepower and 690 newton‑metres of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The manufacturer claims a range of 542 km, with a CCS2 or Type 2 charger capable of topping the battery from 30 % to 80 % in roughly 30 minutes.
Pricing and Availability
While the exact retail price remains undisclosed, BYD Philippines has released an image price of 2.5 to 2.6 million Philippine pesos. The vehicle is expected to launch soon, and interested buyers can visit the showroom over the weekend to experience the Sea Lion 7 firsthand.
With its striking design, spacious interior, and robust performance, the BYD Sea Lion 7 positions itself as a compelling choice for those seeking a premium electric crossover. As the market evolves, the Sea Lion 7’s blend of style, technology, and practicality could set a new benchmark for what consumers expect from an electric SUV.