BYD has introduced the second-generation Seal 07 electric sedan in China, with a starting price of approximately $22,000 (~AUD 32,009). The new model matches the size of a BMW 5 Series and brings advanced battery technology and impressive range figures at a highly competitive price point. While the Seal 07 is currently exclusive to the Chinese market, its specifications and value have drawn significant attention.
Seal 07 Dimensions and Market Position
The BYD Seal 07 measures 5.1 meters in length, nearly two meters in width, and just under 1.5 meters in height, with a three-meter wheelbase. This makes it slightly longer than the BMW 5 Series, placing it firmly in the large sedan segment. Sam Evans points out that this is a “big car size for small car money,” highlighting the value proposition for buyers.
In Australia and other markets such as the UK and Thailand, buyers can currently purchase the previous generation Seal 07, not the newly launched second generation. Sam notes that the outgoing model has been popular, with nearly 2,700 units sold in Australia last month—almost matching Tesla Model Y sales. However, he suggests that recent buyers may be disappointed by the rapid arrival of the new version, with potential depreciation concerns.
Battery, Range, and Performance
The new Seal 07 is equipped with a 76.7 kWh second-generation blade battery using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and offering higher energy density. According to Chinese test standards, the sedan achieves a range of 775 kilometers. Using the WLTP standard, the range is 636 kilometers, or just under 400 miles. Sam Evans describes this as “pretty impressive” for the segment.
The sedan uses a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 245 kilowatts (330 horsepower), enabling a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 5.5 seconds. Sam notes that while this acceleration is fast enough for most, it may not be the primary selling point for buyers in this category.
Charging Capabilities
One of the standout features is the charging speed, with AITO (BYD’s technology partner) claiming a 10% to 97% charge in just nine minutes—though this is only achievable using proprietary flash chargers, which are currently not widespread. Charging from 10% to 80% is estimated at about seven minutes under these conditions.
Sam cautions that on regular fast chargers, the Seal 07 will perform similarly to other fast-charging EVs. He estimates that using a 500 kW charger, such as those from Tesla (if compatible), a full charge could take around 15 minutes, which remains very fast by industry standards.
Weight, Efficiency, and Overseas Availability
Sam Evans has previously criticized BYD for the weight of its vehicles, but he notes that the latest Chinese-market BYD models, including the Seal 07, are both larger and lighter than their predecessors. He sees this as a significant improvement in efficiency and engineering.
Currently, BYD has not announced plans to launch the second-generation Seal 07 in Australia, the UK, the US, or Canada. Sam predicts that an international release is likely, but no official dates have been provided.
What This Means for Buyers and the Market
The launch of the second-generation BYD Seal 07 in China demonstrates how quickly EV technology and value are advancing. Buyers in China now have access to a large, well-equipped electric sedan with cutting-edge battery technology at a price far below traditional competitors. Sam believes that if and when the new Seal 07 reaches international markets, it could significantly disrupt the segment and put pressure on established brands to improve their offerings.
For current owners of the outgoing model, rapid depreciation may be a concern, but the overall trend suggests that future BYD vehicles will continue to improve in both performance and efficiency. The Seal 07 sets a new benchmark for affordable, large electric sedans and highlights BYD’s ongoing push to lead in the global EV market.
