BYD eMax 7 electric MPV to replace e6 in India; Malaysia still waiting

KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Motors signed a distributorship agreement with China’s BYD in September 2022. Back then, the automaker announced the arrival of two EVs in Malaysia, namely the Atto 3 and e6. The Atto 3 launched in December that year as promised, however, we are still waiting for the e6. 

BYD recently introduced a revised version of the e6, called the M6, in Indonesia and Thailand. And now it is gearing up to launch the vehicle’s successor in the Indian market and named it the eMax 7. The eMax 7 promises to bring a host of improvements over its predecessor, including cosmetic updates and additional features. 

What does the name “eMAX 7” signify?

The 'e' represents the electric drive, highlighting the vehicle's eco-friendly nature while the 'MAX' underscores enhanced performance, range, and features. The ‘7’ symbolises generation succession over the outgoing model BYD e6. 

Mr. Rajeev Chauhan, Head of the Electric Passenger Vehicles(EPV) Business at BYD India said, "BYD personifies sustainable luxury, and it is our constant endeavour to evolve and offer best-in-class technology and features to our customers. The BYD eMAX 7 is a testament to our efforts, which are designed after careful study of the market and feedback from the existing customers. It is a forward-thinking vehicle ideal for consumers who prioritise both sustainable luxury and practicality. The BYD eMAX 7 is a perfect fit for families seeking eco-friendly solutions without compromising on style and performance."

The upcoming EV will have a significant change in seating capacity compared to its predecessor, which was available only as a 5-seater. According to sources, the BYD eMax 7 will come in both six- and seven-seater configurations, providing flexibility for families and larger groups. While the addition of extra seats will reduce the overall cargo space, the interior has been thoughtfully upgraded. The seats are now wrapped in leatherette upholstery lending the vehicle a more premium look and feel.

The eMax 7 will also come equipped with several other premium touches and advanced bits. The centre console has been redesigned to incorporate faux wood and aluminium inserts, while the dashboard incorporates soft-touch materials and premium-looking switchgear. The MPV will also feature a fixed panoramic glass roof offering an open, airy feel to passengers.

In terms of safety, the upcoming BYD MPV is expected to come equipped with a comprehensive pack of advanced safety features. These may include multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.

The BYD e6 successor gets two drivetrain options - 

• 163 hp/310 Nm electric motor paired with a 55.4-kWh battery pack offering a driving range of 420 km.
• 204 hp/310 Nm electric motor paired with a 71.8-kWh unit that lets the EV cruise up to 530 km on a single charge.

Overall, these enhancements make the BYD eMax 7 a well-rounded choice in the MPV segment, appealing to buyers looking for both practicality and luxury. 

Will the BYD eMAX 7 come to Malaysia?

Given BYD's expanding portfolio and growing interest in the region, the updated version of the e6, whether the M6 or eMax 7, could potentially make its way to Malaysia.

Also read: BYD Malaysia surprises with enhanced 2024 Atto 3 during Seal Dynamic launch - Faster acceleration/DCcharging, better range,RM150k