BYD Sealion 05 EV unveiled – Positioned between Atto 3 and Sealion 7

BYD has officially unveiled the Sealion 05 EV, expanding its lineup of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This latest addition sits between the Atto 3 and Sealion 7 in terms of size and is expected to launch in China on March 25. While BYD already offers a Sealion 05 DM-i plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in China, the Sealion 05 EV is a completely separate model, designed as a pure electric crossover.

The Sealion 05 EV adopts a fresh design language, featuring:

• C-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs) connected by a horizontal light strip.

• Smoked wave-shaped taillights with an illuminated BYD logo integrated into the rear light bar.

• Black wheel arches and lower body cladding, enhancing its rugged stance.

• Flush door handles, similar to those on the Dolphin and Seagull.

This design sets the Sealion 05 EV apart from its PHEV counterpart while maintaining a strong BYD identity.

The Sealion 05 EV measures:

• Length: 4,520 mm

• Width: 1,860 mm

• Height: 1,630 mm

• Wheelbase: 2,720 mm

For comparison:

• Atto 3: 4,455 mm (L) / 1,875 mm (W) / 1,615 mm (H) / 2,720 mm (WB)

• Sealion 7: 4,830 mm (L) / 1,925 mm (W) / 1,620 mm (H) / 2,930 mm (WB)

These figures place the Sealion 05 EV directly between the Atto 3 and Sealion 7, offering an alternative for buyers who want something larger than the Atto 3 but not as big as the Sealion 7.

Although official interior photos have not been released, dealer lot sightings reveal:

• A digital instrument cluster.

• A floating-style infotainment screen.

• A wireless charging pad.

Additionally, the 110-litre frunk (front trunk) is the largest in its segment, adding to the vehicle’s practicality.

The Sealion 05 EV is expected to come with BYD’s DiPilot/“God’s Eye” advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), which could be standard across all variants in China. Sensors and cameras placed around the vehicle suggest features such as:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane-keeping assistance

• Automatic emergency braking

While official powertrain details are still undisclosed, Chinese sources speculate:

• Front-mounted electric motor with an output of 190 PS.

• BYD’s Blade battery (LFP technology), offering a driving range between 410 km and 510 km.

At present, it is unclear if the Sealion 05 EV will be sold outside China. BYD’s global electric SUV range consists of the Atto 2 (not yet available in Malaysia), Atto 3, and Sealion 7. The Sealion 05 EV could fill a gap in the lineup or potentially overlap with existing models, leading to some confusion in the market.

With the official launch set for March 25, more details—including pricing and international availability—should emerge soon. For now, the Sealion 05 EV presents itself as an intriguing addition to BYD’s growing EV portfolio.