New BYD Seal 07 opens for orders in China, with NZ launch unconfirmed

BYD has opened blind orders for its second-generation Seal 07 in China, giving sedan buyers a first look at a larger model available with electric or plug-in hybrid power.

For New Zealand drivers, the key question is whether it will join the local range. The new Seal 07 has not been confirmed for this market, and there is no announced New Zealand price or launch date. BYD already sells the electric Seal sedan here, as well as the plug-in hybrid Seal 6 Touring wagon. The Seal 07 is a separate, larger model, so its Chinese specifications should not be taken as local specifications.

A bigger sedan

The new Seal 07 measures 5,080 mm long, 1,960 mm wide and 1,495 mm high, with a 2,960 mm wheelbase. Compared with the outgoing Chinese-market Seal 07 EV, it is 85 mm longer and 50 mm wider, with an extra 60 mm between the axles.

Its styling includes split headlights, a closed front grille and a full-width rear light. A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor appears on the car shown, although equipment and driver-assistance functions across the range have not been detailed.

Electric and plug-in hybrid options

Chinese reporting says the plug-in hybrid pairs a 115 kW 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with a 160 kW electric motor and a 38 kWh battery. Its quoted electric driving range is 245 km on the WLTC test cycle.

The electric version is reported with a motor producing up to 300 kW. China-market range figures and specifications do not establish what a New Zealand version would offer, should one be introduced.

Inside, the car has a central touchscreen and digital instruments. CarNewsChina reports heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, a 20-speaker audio system and storage at both ends of the car, though equipment may vary between versions.

What it means for New Zealand

BYD New Zealand lists the current electric Seal from $59,990 before on-road costs. That is the price of the existing local model, not the new Seal 07. Until BYD confirms any local plans, buyers should treat the new sedan's arrival, specification and pricing as unknown.

Sources: CarNewsChina, CnEVPost, CarExpert NZ and BYD New Zealand.