Which electric car should I choose - BYD or Tesla?
BYD has recently sprung onto the EV market in the UK with dealerships opening up nationwide - two of these recent additions include BYD Chester and BYD Crewe. The Chinese manufacturer has been making waves since sponsoring the Euros in 2024 with their high-tech battery advancements and unique design. Tesla has been leading the electric charge for many years, becoming an instantly recognisable brand worldwide. Both brands offer a slightly different approach, with US Tesla focusing the luxury and premium segment whilst BYD aims to offer electric power to a much wider market at an affordable price.
In the last few months of 2023, BYD overtook Tesla to become the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer with more electric vehicle sales in multiple locations. Thanks to their high-quality manufacture, sleek design and high safety ratings, it’s easy to see why. This blog delves into how the two brands compare and hopes to answer the most asked questions about the two powerhouses of the electric vehicle industry.
What is the main difference between BYD and Tesla?
Both brands offer a selection of high quality electric vehicles with the latest technology, features and impressive expected range.
Tesla’s ground-breaking models such as the Model S, Model 3, Model X and Model Y have led the way for other manufacturers to have the confidence that electric vehicles will be accepted in the mainstream market. Whilst the models have set the standard for performance, range and self-driving capabilities, Tesla has targeted their cars towards the luxury sector, resulting in expensive prices but an enhanced driving experience.
On the other hand, newcomers BYD have released a selection of cars that can compete with the very best on the market at an affordable price point. The BYD UK range features the ATTO 3, Dolphin and SEAL, SEAL U DM-i and SEALION 7 all of which include powerful batteries and a high level of standard equipment. If you want to find out more about the BYD range, take a look at our model reviews below.
Is BYD cheaper than Tesla?
The starting price for the most affordable BYD new car, the Dolphin, is considerably cheaper with prices starting at £26,195 for a brand new vehicle. Tesla’s entry model 3 is priced from £39,990, so it’s a significant increase to BYD. Both cars offer an exciting drive and great features, with the Model 3 being larger and offering a slightly higher expected range.
BYD also offer the BYD ATTO 3 which is also priced affordably, starting from £37,695. The direct competition for the Atto 3 is Tesla’s electric SUV, the Model Y which is currently priced from £44,990.
The SEAL U DM-i is a sleek SUV that is ideal for families or those who need some extra space in their car. This stylish vehicle offers a direct comparison to the model X and is priced from £33,205.
BYD’s newest model, the SEALION 7 is their second SUV in the lineup and offers a unique design and powerful performance, making it ideal for those longer road journeys. The starting price for this vehicle is £46,990.
What are the main differences between Tesla and BYD?
Other than being manufactured on different continents, with the Tesla headquarters based in Austin, Texas, USA and BYD being based in Shenzhen, China, one of the most notable differences is the battery technology being used by both companies.
Tesla typically uses nickel-cobalt-aluminium (NCA) or nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) when designing their batteries. Both components are known to offer a high-density energy output which increases performance and range.
BYD have created a brand-new battery design, the ‘Blade Battery’ which uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP). The reason for this innovation is to increase safety levels and durability. In addition to a lower risk of overheating, the Blade Battery is expected to last longer than traditional batteries, keeping the BYD cars on the roads for much longer. BYD began business by manufacturing phone batteries, so it’s no surprise that the company have created something so innovative.
Of course, another big difference is BYD’s presence in the UK soaring from relatively unknown to the rising star in the market. Quality and safety has never phased BYD, as their cars are made for comfort, style and performance.
How does Tesla and BYD differ with quality?
Tesla has often received praise for their cutting-edge technology and electric vehicle performance but has received some levels of criticism for build quality. In order to reduces prices, the materials used are not always the most luxurious and hard standing, with the lithium-ion battery usually costing the company the most money.
BYD offer competitive technology and safety features but also offer a more consistent build quality and are seen as being more reliable. When surveyed, the BYD usually matched or even outpaced some of the its competitors in the market in terms of reliability - knowing a car can take you the extra mile makes all the difference when you’re commuting or travelling with family. Its Blade Battery technology has been rigourously tested under the harshest of conditions, so you know it’s technology you can rely on. If you’d like to find out more about the quality of the BYD models, visit one of our showrooms in Crewe or Chester to test drive.
Does BYD or Tesla offer more range?
Both BYD and Tesla have designed electric cars with practical expected range at the forefront of the manufacturing process. With that being said, Tesla’s cars, in particular the long range editions offer a higher WLTP. Where BYD may slightly fall behind in top line range figures, they make up for in the focus on safety and longevity.
Maximum Range for BYD and Tesla:
- BYD ATTO 3 – 260 miles WLTP combined.
- BYD Dolphin - 265 miles WLTP combined.
- BYD SEAL - 354 miles WLTP combined.
- BYD SEAL U DM-i - 540 miles combined.
- BYD SEALION 7 - 312 miles combined.
- Tesla Model 3 - 318 miles WLTP combined (Long Range variant 390 miles WLTP combined).
- Tesla Model Y – 283 miles WLTP combined (Long Range variant 331 miles WLTP combined).
BYD vs Tesla: Summary
Whilst both BYD and Tesla offer competitive products, the decision should come down to the individual buyer and their priorities and preferences.
If long range and performance is essential than Tesla might be the car for you. Alternatively, if shorter daily commutes and only the occasional road trip replicates your driving style then a BYD might be more suitable.
If pricing is your main concern then the BYD offers more for less, with the range starting at £30,195 with the BYD Dolphin.
Either way, if you’re searching for an electric vehicle one of these two brands is a good place to start.