BYD Introduces Sealion 7 EV, Atto 8 PHEV in Chile Market

The Sealion 7 starts at CLP 36,990,000 ($40,689) and targets rivals such as the Tesla Model Y, while the Atto 8 priced from CLP 43,990,000($48,389), offering up to 1,030 km of combined range.

BYD recently held a launch event in Santiago, the capital of Chile, announcing the official entry of two SUVs into the local market: the all-electric Sealion 7 (marketed as Sealion 07 EV in China) and the plug-in hybrid Atto 8 (known as Tang L in China).

The Sealion 7 is a midsize electric SUV offered in two variants: the GL rear-wheel-drive version and the GS all-wheel-drive version.

Both are built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and are equipped with lithium iron phosphate Blade batteries.

The GL version is fitted with a 71.8 kWh battery, while the GS version uses an 82.5 kWh pack. Both variants offer a driving range of 543 km under the NEDC cycle.

In terms of pricing, the Sealion 7 GL rear-wheel-drive version starts at CLP 36,990,000 including subsidies ($40,689), while the GS all-wheel-drive version is priced at CLP 43,990,000 ($48,389).

Based on its pricing range and market positioning, the model will compete directly with mainstream electric SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y in the local market.

The Atto 8 adopts a three-row, seven-seat layout with a body length of 5 meters and a wheelbase of 2,950 mm, providing seating for up to seven passengers.

In terms of powertrain, the Atto 8 features BYD’s DM dual-mode hybrid technology and is available in DM-i and DM-p variants.

In terms of performance and range, the Atto 8 offers a combined driving range of up to 1,030 km under the NEDC cycle.

The DM-p version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and delivers combined torque of 895 Nm.

In terms of pricing, the DM-i version starts at CLP 43,990,000 including subsidies ($48,389), while the DM-p version is priced at CLP 48,990,000 ($53,888).

In recent years, BYD has significantly accelerated its expansion across the Latin American market.

In addition to Chile, the company is building a large production facility in Brazil, advancing plans for a factory in Mexico and expanding its sales network, while continuing to introduce new models in markets including Colombia, Argentina and Peru.

The latest data show that in February this year, BYD’s overseas sales of new energy passenger vehicles reached 100,151 units, accounting for 52.6% of its total monthly sales and marking the first time its monthly overseas sales exceeded domestic deliveries.