What Happened
Cofiño has entered the Panamanian market as part of a new stage for BYD in the country, bringing with it a long regional track record and a commitment to strengthen the brand’s local operation. The move places the Central American automotive group at the center of BYD’s push to expand electric mobility in Panama.
The company says it will support after-sales service, maintenance and technical assistance for BYD customers while also planning new salesrooms in strategic locations. That approach is designed to combine product rollout with the service network needed to support electric vehicle adoption.
The Model Leading the Launch
The launch centerpiece is the BYD Sealion 7 2026, a 100% electric D-segment SUV that Cofiño is using as its introduction to the Panamanian market. The vehicle features Smart AWD and a combined output of 523 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 215 km/h.
Its 82.5 kWh Blade Battery offers a certified range of 456 kilometers under the WLTC cycle. The SUV also supports DC fast charging at 150 kW, allowing the battery to move from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
Technology and Safety Features
BYD’s Cell to Body technology integrates the battery into the vehicle structure to improve safety and dynamic stability. Inside, the Sealion 7 includes a 15.6-inch rotating multimedia screen, a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system, a panoramic sunroof, HD 360-degree vision and NFC connectivity that lets a phone work as a key.
The vehicle also comes with more than 20 active driver-assistance systems, positioning it as a premium electric option aimed at drivers looking for advanced technology and everyday practicality.
Why This Matters for Panama
The arrival of Cofiño adds a new layer of regional automotive experience to Panama’s growing electric mobility market. By pairing sales expansion with post-sale support, the company is betting that trust and service will be central to wider adoption of electric vehicles in the country.
The move also reflects a broader regional strategy. Founded in Guatemala in 1941, Cofiño now operates across Central America with more than 3,000 employees and a reputation built on brand representation, service and sustainable growth. Its arrival in Panama through BYD signals an expansion that could increase competition in the electric SUV segment while creating new commercial and employment opportunities.
For Panama, the launch adds another international player to a market where interest in cleaner transport continues to grow. The Sealion 7’s combination of range, fast charging and performance is aimed at making electric driving more attractive to local buyers.