CleanTechnica recently visited a BYD dealership in North Lakes to explore the full Sealion range, including the all-electric Sealion 7 and its plug-in hybrid siblings. With the Sealion 7 competing closely with the Tesla Model Y for Australia’s top BEV spot, the visit offered a hands-on look at features, pricing, and the latest sales figures. The experience also highlighted how Australian buyers are weighing their options as the country’s EV infrastructure continues to develop.
Exploring the BYD Sealion Range
BYD currently offers the Sealion 5, 6, 7, and 8 in Australia, with the Sealion 7 standing out as the only fully electric model. The Sealion 5, 6, and 8 are marketed as ‘Super Hybrids’ due to their large battery capacities and notable electric-only ranges. The Sealion 5 PHEV, the most affordable of the group, starts at A$34,000 (~$23,569) and features a 12.9 kWh battery for about 70 km (~43 miles) of electric range. The Sealion 6 PHEV starts at A$43,000 (~$29,808) with an 18.3 kWh battery and 81 km (~50 miles) of range, while the newly launched Sealion 8, a seven-seat luxury PHEV, starts at A$57,000 (~$39,513) and offers just over 100 km (~62 miles) of electric driving from its 19 kWh battery.
The dealership visit revealed strong customer interest across all age groups, with families especially prominent. The Sealion 7 has become a significant sales success, with 12,516 units delivered in Australia during the first half of 2026. The Sealion 6 has sold 2,218 units, and the Sealion 8 recorded 1,961 sales in June alone. The Sealion 5 is still awaiting its official launch.
Sealion 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Features and Impressions
The Sealion 7 is often compared directly with the Tesla Model Y. According to Which Car?, the BYD Sealion 7 is slightly less expensive but comes with higher servicing costs. BYD offers a better warranty, while the Tesla Model Y provides more interior space, with nearly 1,000 litres (~35.3 cubic feet) of luggage capacity compared to the Sealion 7’s 558 litres (~19.7 cubic feet). The Tesla is also 0.8 seconds quicker to 100 km/h, likely due to its lighter 62.5 kWh battery versus the BYD’s 82.56 kWh pack.
The Sealion 7 offers a range of 482 km (~300 miles), slightly edging out the Tesla Model Y’s 466 km (~290 miles). It also features Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability, a 360-degree camera, and a Heads Up Display (HUD). However, the Tesla charges faster. As noted by Which Car?, ‘the Sealion 7 doesn’t have the same dynamic cohesion as the Tesla.’
Inside the Sealion 7 and 8: Comfort and Technology
The Sealion 7’s interior is spacious, with ample room in both the boot and back seat. The driver’s seat includes extendable leg support and lumbar adjustment for long-distance comfort. The dashboard is equipped with numerous buttons and knobs, which may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional layout over Tesla’s minimalist approach. Servicing for the Sealion 7 is required once a year or every 20,000 km (~12,400 miles), costing around A$300 (~$208) to A$400 (~$277) depending on mileage. Over-the-air updates are supported.
The Sealion 8 stands out for its luxury features, including 24 speakers and a massage function that operates for up to 20 minutes while driving. Despite these amenities, some buyers still prefer the Tesla Model Y for its technology and design.
Dealership Insights and Customer Perspectives
During the visit, a dealership manager shared his perspective on EV adoption in Australia. When asked about cross-shopping between the Sealion 7 and Model Y, he noted that customers rarely mention their alternatives. He also explained that one-pedal driving is not available in BYDs sold in Australia, adding, ‘thankfully,’ as he prefers a more hands-on driving experience. He stated, ‘I like to drive.’
The manager, who drives both a BYD Dolphin and a Landcruiser, remarked, ‘I’ll never give up my Cruiser.’ He expressed interest in the upcoming Blade 2 battery for its longer range. When asked, ‘Do you think we are headed for an all-electric future?’ he replied, ‘No,’ citing that ‘Australia just doesn’t have the infrastructure.’
Why this matters
The rapid growth in BYD Sealion 7 deliveries and the expanding range of plug-in hybrids highlight the increasing appeal of electrified vehicles in Australia. However, the comparison with the Tesla Model Y shows that buyers are still weighing factors like charging speed, interior space, and technology.
The dealership feedback underscores ongoing concerns about charging infrastructure, which remains a key barrier for some Australians considering a switch to full electric vehicles.
What this means for buyers
For Australian buyers, the BYD Sealion lineup offers a range of options from affordable plug-in hybrids to a well-equipped all-electric SUV. The Sealion 7 is a strong contender for those seeking longer range and advanced features, but buyers prioritizing charging speed and minimalist design may still prefer the Tesla Model Y.
As infrastructure continues to improve, prospective EV owners should consider their driving habits, local charging availability, and the specific features that matter most to them before making a decision.
Key Specs
- Sealion 5 PHEV Starting Price: A$34,000 (~$23,569)
- Sealion 5 Battery: 12.9 kWh
- Sealion 5 Electric Range: 70 km (~43 miles)
- Sealion 6 PHEV Starting Price: A$43,000 (~$29,808)
- Sealion 6 Battery: 18.3 kWh
- Sealion 6 Electric Range: 81 km (~50 miles)
- Sealion 8 PHEV Starting Price: A$57,000 (~$39,513)
- Sealion 8 Battery: 19 kWh
- Sealion 8 Electric Range: 100+ km (~62+ miles)
- Sealion 8 Speakers: 24
- Sealion 7 Battery: 82.56 kWh
- Sealion 7 Range: 482 km (~300 miles)
- Sealion 7 Boot Capacity: 558 litres (~19.7 cubic feet)
- Sealion 7 Servicing Interval: 1 year or 20,000 km (~12,400 miles)
- Sealion 7 Servicing Cost: A$300 (~$208) to A$400 (~$277)
Source
Images sourced from: cleantechnica.com, whatcar.com
