BYD has been quietly strengthening its footprint in India. While they may seem new to the market, the brand has actually been operating in the country for over 17 years, initially supplying batteries to cellphone manufacturers like Nokia. Eventually, they ventured into India’s passenger vehicle space, making an impact with their electric MPV, the E6. Popular among fleet operators, became a favourite for its impressive range and comfort, which made it ideal for tourists and commercial taxis. In fact, 70 per cent of the E6 units sold in India served fleet operators, while the remaining 30 per cent catered to personal buyers.
With the arrival of the eMAX7, BYD is pivoting more toward private buyers, incorporating feedback on features and layout options to make the vehicle appealing for personal and family use. The eMAX7 includes a thoughtfully designed layout that allows for easy access to the third row and comfort features suited for long drives, positioning it as a compelling electric alternative in the MPV space. We flew to Chennai to experience this new offering and see how the latest attempt fares in the Indian market.
At first glance, this electric MPV may remind you of a conventional diesel-powered MPV, with its spacious proportions and practical design. However, there are distinct cues signalling its EV nature, such as the closed grille up front and BYD’s ‘Dragon Face’ design language, featuring sleek, angular headlights. The side profile keeps to the traditional MPV silhouette, while the rear end sports clean lines with minimal badging — just the brand’s initials and a small EV emblem. The overall effect is understated but refined, with a colour palette that includes Quartz Blue, Harbour Grey, Crystal White, and Cosmos Black.
This EV misses out on a ‘frunk,’ a front trunk commonly found in EVs, which could have been a great place to store the charging cable and other essentials. The under-hood space primarily houses the electric motor, with no additional storage provided.
Inside, the eMAX7 greets you with a well-built, premium-feeling cabin. The standout feature is the large 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen display, which offers both landscape and portrait modes to cater to personal preferences. BYD’s rotating screen option is a unique touch, allowing users to switch between views at the press of a button, which enhances usability. Landscape mode is preferable for displaying more information at once, though portrait mode remains an option for those who prefer it.
Though the infotainment system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, some of its controls, like those for the ventilated seats and fan speed, are buried within the menus. Physical buttons for such frequently used functions would enhance convenience. The gear selector, however, is something I liked — a solid shifter with satisfying tactility, a nice contrast to the small buttons and dials seen in many other EVs.
The second row, equipped with comfortable captain seats, offers a relaxing experience with ample legroom. The six-seater version is particularly comfortable for passengers, though privacy blinds for the rear windows, common in the segment, would have been a nice addition. Access to the third row is easy, though this area is best suited for children or shorter adults on long trips. A panoramic sunroof opens up the cabin, adding to the airy and spacious feel, complemented by soft-touch plastics in key areas for an enhanced sense of quality.
At the heart of the EV is BYD’s Blade Battery technology, available in two configurations: a 55.4 kWh pack and a larger 71.8 kWh option. The model we drove had a 71.8 kWh battery, boasting an impressive estimated range of 530 km. The electric motor produces 201 bhp and 31.61 kgm of torque, propelling the from 0-100 kph in around 8.9 seconds — which is quitel respectable for a full-sized MPV.
The eMAX7 offers three driving modes: Sport, Normal, and Eco. Sport mode includes a timer that allows you to clock the 0-100 kph time for fun, while Normal mode strikes a good balance between throttle responsiveness and efficiency. The regenerative braking offers two levels of intensity, providing adequate braking without the aggressive feel seen in some EVs.
One of the qualities of this model is its battery calibration. BYD’s Blade Battery packs not only excellent efficiency but also accurate range prediction, which many EVs struggle with. The distance-to-empty reading closely aligns with the actual kilometres driven, reducing range anxiety and enhancing the overall user experience.
Driving this EV reveals a well-engineered packager with a low centre of gravity, thanks to its floor-mounted battery pack. This low profile enhances cornering stability, making the car surprisingly agile for an MPV, with limited body roll and a planted feel even on winding roads. The suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections, while maintaining composure at higher speeds.
Whether navigating urban traffic or cruising on the highway, this MPV provides a smooth, composed drive. While it may not match the nimbleness of smaller vehicles, the ride quality and solid handling lend confidence, making it a suitable option for city commutes and long journeys alike.
The Blade Battery’s high efficiency and accurate range calibration mean fewer surprises for drivers. After covering a good distance in Chennai’s heavy traffic and on open roads, we observed excellent range retention. The larger battery pack’s estimated range of 530 km appears achievable under real-world conditions, which is appealing to both fleet operators and private buyers.
Multiple charging options are available, from standard home charging to fast-charging stations, making it convenient to keep the vehicle ready for use without frequent recharges. With excellent range and energy efficiency, the eMAX7 becomes an economical choice, reducing both fuel costs and environmental impact for those moving away from traditional MPVs.
The BYD eMAX7 starts at ₹26.9 lakhs (ex-showroom) and is offered in two variants: Premium and Superior, with six or seven-seat layouts. We recommend the six-seat option for maximum comfort unless an extra seat is essential. Despite a few minor drawbacks, like the lack of a ‘frunk’ and some buried infotainment controls, the BYD eMAX7 delivers a compelling package with its spacious design, practical features, and long electric range. It’s not only ideal for fleet operators but also makes a strong case for private buyers seeking a modern, eco-friendly family car.
BYD’s new eMAX successfully integrates thoughtful feedback from early adopters and fleet operators, offering a well-rounded electric MPV with a range and features that can genuinely challenge traditional diesel-powered competitors. With the growing acceptance of EVs in India, the eMAX7 has the potential to stand out in the market as a comfortable, cost-effective choice for those ready to move away from conventional fuel options.
