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KIA Picanto air filter change DIY video tutorial step by step at the end of article. The air filter in your KIA Picanto is an important component of the engine’s air intake system. Its primary function is to prevent dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine, which can cause damage and reduce performance. Over time, the air filter can become clogged and dirty, which can restrict airflow to the engine and affect fuel economy. In this article, we’ll show you how to change the air filter in your KIA Picanto with a simple DIY procedure. Subscribe Tools and Materials Required: New air filter Flathead screwdriver Step 1: Locate the air filter housing The air filter housing in your KIA Picanto is located on the driver’s side of the engine bay. It is a black plastic box with a large air intake tube leading into it. Step 2: Remove the air filter housing cover To remove the air filter housin...

BYD Sealion 7: The Ocean‑Inspired EV SUV

BYD Sealion 7: The Ocean‑Inspired EV SUV Making Waves in the UK

The BYD Sealion 7 is one of the most exciting newcomers in the UK electric SUV market — priced to undercut many rivals like the Tesla Model Y while offering impressive performance, cutting‑edge technology and real‑world practicality for families and EV enthusiasts alike. With a range of versions to choose from, strong warranty cover, and features typically found on premium EVs, this all‑electric SUV is helping BYD establish a significant footprint in the UK.


What Is the BYD Sealion 7?

BYD’s Sealion 7 is a mid‑sized electric SUV built on the brand’s latest platform with a BYD Blade Battery — a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack integrated into the car’s structure for safety and efficiency. It’s part of BYD’s “Ocean Series” range of EVs and arrives in UK dealerships from Q1 2025.

This SUV is designed to balance performance, everyday usability and long‑distance capability, making it an appealing choice for families and those transitioning from petrol/diesel cars to electric.


Model Line‑Up and Pricing (UK)

In the UK, the Sealion 7 is offered in three distinct trims — each with different power, range and feature sets:

1. Comfort (RWD)

  • Drive: Rear‑wheel drive
  • Battery: 82.5 kWh Blade Battery
  • Motor output: approx. 230 kW (~308 bhp)
  • 0‑62 mph: ~6.7 seconds
  • Top speed: ~134 mph
  • WLTP range: ~300 miles
  • DC fast‑charging: up to 150 kW
  • Price: ~£46,990 (on‑the‑road)

2. Design (AWD)

  • Drive: All‑wheel drive (dual motors)
  • Combined power: approx. 390 kW (~523 bhp)
  • 0‑62 mph: ~4.5 seconds
  • Range: ~283 miles (82.5 kWh)
  • DC fast‑charging: up to 150 kW
  • Price: ~£49,290 (approx)

3. Excellence (AWD – Long‑Range)

  • Drive: All‑wheel drive (same dual‑motor setup)
  • Battery: Larger 91.3 kWh pack
  • Range: ~312 miles
  • 0‑62 mph: ~4.5 seconds
  • Peak DC charging: up to 230 kW
  • Price: ~£57,290 (approx)

All models come with standard equipment such as a high‑efficiency heat pump (helpful in cold UK weather to preserve range) and a vehicle‑to‑load function that can power devices from the car’s battery.


Performance: Power and Speed

Whether you choose the entry‑level Comfort or the range‑topping Excellence trim, performance is a strong suit for the Sealion 7:

  • Top Speed: ~134 mph (all trims)
  • 0‑62 mph: ~4.5 s on AWD versions, ~6.7 s on RWD Comfort
  • Torque: AWD versions deliver up to 690 Nm of instant electric torque (523 bhp combined)

This level of performance places the Sealion 7 more in the territory of sporty SUVs than a conventional family hauler — and easily rivals many similarly priced EVs in dynamics.


Range and Energy Consumption (UK MPG Equivalent)

Electric vehicles don’t use “litres per 100 km”, so one way to relate efficiency to traditional drivers is to convert consumption to imperial MPG equivalent — the higher the number, the more efficient.

Official WLTP figures for the AWD Design variant:

  • Rated WLTP range: ~283 miles
  • Rated energy use: ~344 Wh/mile
  • MPG Equivalent: ~117 mpg (official figure)
  • Vehicle consumption figure: ~139 mpg equivalent

This means in standard mixed driving you’re likely to see figures in the 100–140 mpg (UK) equivalent range — though real‑world driving (higher speeds, cold weather) can see consumption rise and effective range drop.


Charging Capability

Charging is a highlight for long trips:

  • 150 kW DC fast‑charging on base and mid trims: 10‑80% in ~32 mins.
  • 230 kW DC on Excellence: 10‑80% in ~24 mins.
  • 11 kW AC charging (3‑phase) for overnight top‑ups.

This means a quick stop at a rapid charger can almost double your range in the time it takes to grab a coffee.


Boot Space and Practicality

Practicality is important for UK buyers and families — and the Sealion 7 delivers in spades:

  • Boot capacity with seats up: ~520 litres
  • Boot with rear seats down: ~1,789 litres

These numbers already make the Sealion 7 highly usable (comparable with typical UK family SUVs), Watch my YouTube video where I measured the boot


Tech, Interior and Extras

Inside, the Sealion 7 feels modern and well‑equipped:

  • 15.6‑inch rotating touchscreen with voice controls and smartphone integration.
  • Premium sound system, USB‑C outlets front and rear.
  • Spacious rear seating with generous legroom.

These features support comfort on longer UK journeys and daily commutes alike.


Verdict: A Strong Competitor in the UK EV Market

The BYD Sealion 7 has arrived in the UK with a compelling blend of performance, range, fast charging and everyday usability — all at a price that undercuts many competitors while offering premium levels of tech and practicality. With strong warranty coverage and flexible configurations, it appeals to EV adopters seeking something sporty yet sensible.

For UK buyers who want both the excitement of a high‑powered SUV and the practicality of a long‑range EV with family‑friendly cargo space , the Sealion 7 is a launch model that demands attention.

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