The BYD eMAX 7 marks a new chapter in the Indian automobile industry as a practical and capable electric MPV
We recently got an opportunity to review the BYD eMAX 7 electric MPV and we would like to share our driving impressions. It is an electric MPV which is a successor to the e6 from the Chinese car marque. The e6 was primarily launched for business and commercial buyers. Unfortunately, this tag stuck with it and even when it was available for private individuals, its sales were not all that impressive. Hence, BYD upgraded the e6 thoroughly and the eMAX 7 was born. It is almost a complete departure from the e6 in terms of aesthetics, features and powertrain.
BYD eMAX 7 Review
On the outside, the electric MPV bears a sober and understated design pattern. This includes things like a sleek front fascia with striking LED headlamps connected via a chrome slab with BYD engraving, striking elements on the lower section of the bumper and a sloping bonnet line. On the sides, the viewers are greeted by a long side body skirting, chrome frames around the windows, elegant alloy wheels and a faux roof rail. The tail section contains a connected LED taillamp console which extends the width of the MPV along with a shark fin antenna, roof-mounted spoiler, chrome belt on the bumper and more. Overall, the design is suited for an electric MPV.
Interior and Features
The cabin of the BYD eMAX 7 bears modern elements with a subtle layout. Clearly, it is not a flashy configuration as you see on other BYD cars. That is because it serves a different set of clientele. Still, we appreciate the premium-looking top section of the dashboard, the practicality and spaces in the cabin and the availability of the latest tech and convenience amenities. The top functions are:
- 5-inch TFT Full LCD Instrument Cluster
- 12.8-inch Rotatable Touchscreen Infotainment Display
- Panoramic Glass roof
- Regenerative Braking
- Synthetic Leather Seats
- 6-speaker Audio System
- Voice Assistant
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 4 USB Slots
- Keyless Entry and Start
- Electrically Adjustable and Foldable ORVMs
- Wireless Phone Charging
- Upper AC Vents
- V2L Technology
- Follow Me Home Headlight
- One-touch Up/Down Windows for all 4 Doors with Anti-pinch Function
- Automatic AC
- PM2.5 Air Filter
- Tyre Repair Kit
- Electric Opening of Trunk
- 6- and 7-seat Layout
- 6-way Electric Adjustable Driver’s Seat
- 6-way Manual Adjustable Passenger’s Seat
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Height Adjustable Headrests
- 6 Airbags
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
- ABS with EBD
- Electric Parking Brake
- Electronic Stability Control
- Hill Hold Control
- Brake Disc Wiping System
- ADAS Features
- 360-degree Camera
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Sport Detection
Specs and Driving Impressions
The BYD eMAX 7 comes with two variants with different battery sizes. These include 55.4 kWh and 71.8 kWh enabling an NEDC-certified range of 420 km and 530 km, respectively. With the smaller battery pack, the power is 161 hp, while the bigger battery allows a peak power of 201 hp. Interestingly, both variants have a maximum torque of 310 Nm. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h comes up in 10.1 seconds with the former and 8.6 seconds with the latter. Apart from that, there are options of an 89 kW DC or 115 kW DC fast charger with these batteries, respectively. All these factors signify a substantial update from the outgoing e6.
In terms of driving, the electric MPV offers a smooth ride. The fact that there is no internal combustion engine means that the operation is smooth. You don’t feel any noise, which makes the long rides extremely convenient. Moreover, there are three drive modes to choose from – Eco, Normal and Sport. These allow you to choose the behaviour of the vehicle depending on the road conditions. The ride quality is impressive and you barely feel any bumps inside the cabin. I particularly like the gradual acceleration which highlights its MPV nature. The comfort of the passengers is of the utmost importance. All in all, you would really love travelling around in or driving the BYD eMAX 7.
Final Thoughts
BYD is taking slow, but concrete steps to establish the brand name in India. It is understandably difficult for a Chinese carmaker to sell cars in India due to the geopolitical circumstances between the two nations. In fact, perhaps that is the reason why we don’t see such huge marketing stunts from BYD in India. They are slowly expanding their footprint here with capable and impressive products. For instance, its latest Seal EV has certainly grabbed the attention of potential car buyers. It Atto 3 was already quite popular. Going forward, if its electric MPV also posts healthy sales, the brand will be more confident in bringing more vehicles from its vast global portfolio. We shall keep an eye out for that.
Also Read: BYD eMAX 7 vs e6 – Is the Replacement Much Better?
