BYD, the global leader in electric vehicle sales in the last quarter, continues its focus on accessible and rational models. While some competitors are struggling with declining sales and higher price points, BYD is doubling down on affordability. Their latest offering? The brand new BYD e7 all-electric sedan. Launched recently, this model is designed to be incredibly accessible, targeting younger buyers and taxi services. Think Tesla Model 3 size, but with a price tag closer to a Dacia Logan.
Price That Makes You Look Twice
The BYD e7 launched on May 17th with a starting price in China of 103,800 yuan, which is about 14,400 USD. The price range for the three trims goes up to 115,800 yuan (16,000 USD). To put that in perspective, the sources note that this price in China is similar to what a Dacia Logan costs in Europe. While the base Dacia Logan in Romania starts slightly lower at 11,790 euro, the BYD e7 starts at the equivalent of about 12,900 euro, making it only 1,100 euro more expensive. However, when you compare the basic features offered, the e7 seems to provide more in its entry-level guise, not to mention it’s an electric vehicle and belongs to a higher size segment.
Design and Dimensions: Bigger Than Its Price Suggests
Positioned as a medium-size sedan, the BYD e7 definitely punches above its price class in terms of size. It measures 4780 mm in length, 1900 mm in width, and 1515 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2820 mm. At 4.78 meters long, it’s actually 6 cm longer than a Tesla Model 3, which measures 4.72 meters, and a significant 38 cm longer than a Dacia Logan at 4.40 meters.
On the outside, BYD says the closed front face creates a “smiley face” effect. You’ll find the BYD logo prominent in the middle and raised rib lines on the front hood. The rear design is layered and includes a duck tail and a through-type taillight group. The car retains traditional door handles, which the source suggests further signals its low-end status. It rides on 16-inch rims.
Performance and Range: Practicality Over Speed
The BYD e7 is equipped with a front permanent magnet synchronous motor. This motor provides a maximum power of 100 kW (134 hp) and a peak torque of 180 Nm. Its top speed is 150 km/h. These power and speed parameters are described as being more modest, fitting into the practical and accessible category.
The car is available with two LFP battery options: 48 kWh and 57.6 kWh. The 48 kWh battery is paired with a CLTC range of 450 km, while the larger 57.6 kWh battery offers a CLTC range of 520 km. With the 48 kWh battery and a 450 km range, the efficiency is estimated to be around 10.6 kWh/100 km. The variant with the larger battery is priced at 16,000 USD. Fast charging times are relatively quick, listed as 0.47 hours and 0.43 hours for the respective battery sizes.
Interior and Features: Tech and Space Where It Counts
Step inside, and the cockpit features a large 15.6-inch central control screen and a smaller 5-inch LCD instrument panel. It also comes with a flat-bottom steering wheel. The vehicle’s operating system is supported by BYD’s DiLink 100.
The center console has a two-layer design. The bottom layer provides two cupholders and additional storage, while the top layer houses several physical buttons and a slot for your phone.
Other features include a panoramic sunroof. The trunk offers a generous volume of 528 L. For added convenience, there are remote controls available for the air-conditioning and for opening/closing the doors. Source also mentions that the entire suite of God’s Eye safety systems is present, including multiple cameras and active systems, and these safety features are offered even in the basic version.
The Bottom Line
The BYD e7 appears to be a compelling option for those seeking an affordable, spacious, and practical electric sedan. By offering a size similar to a Tesla Model 3 and a price close to a Dacia Logan, combined with decent range and useful features, BYD is clearly targeting a significant segment of the market – younger buyers and taxi operators alike.
