BYD, a prominent Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, is set to introduce the Sealion 07 EV into the Japanese passenger car market this year. This move marks BYD’s fourth model in Japan, following the successful launches of the Yuan Plus, Dolphin, and Seal models. In 2024, BYD experienced a significant 54 percent year-on-year increase in NEV sales in Japan, with a total of 2,223 units sold, outpacing local Japanese brands like Toyota in the NEV segment.
The unveiling of the Sealion 07 EV took place at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 on January 10, showcasing BYD’s commitment to expanding its presence in international markets. The Sealion 07 EV is priced competitively and is positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y in China, with a starting price of RMB 189,800 yuan ($25,890). Deliveries of the Sealion 07 EV commenced in China shortly after its launch.
BYD’s entry into the Japanese passenger car market was officially announced on July 21, 2022, marking a strategic move into a highly competitive market dominated by global automotive giants like Toyota and Honda. The company’s first passenger car in Japan, the Atto 3 (Yuan Plus), was launched in January 2023, followed by the Dolphin compact electric vehicle in September 2023 and the Seal electric sedan in June 2024.
The Sealion 07 EV is based on BYD’s new e-Platform 3.0 Evo technology platform, which was introduced in China in May 2024. This innovative platform enables enhanced performance and efficiency for the Sealion 07 EV, positioning it as a leading contender in the electric SUV segment. The model has already been successfully launched in Europe, Norway, and Thailand, with plans for further expansion into international markets.
Looking ahead, Deutsche Bank expects BYD to achieve significant sales growth in 2025, with projections estimating sales of 5.52 million cars for the year. This forecast reflects the strong momentum and market potential for BYD’s electric vehicles, driven by the successful introduction of models like the Sealion 07 EV in key markets worldwide.
In conclusion, BYD’s expansion into the Japanese passenger car market with the Sealion 07 EV represents a significant milestone in the company’s global growth strategy. With a strong lineup of innovative electric vehicles and a commitment to sustainability, BYD is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for NEVs in international markets.
