BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: A New Contender in the EV Market
Just a short while ago, the Tesla Model 3 was the dominant force in the electric vehicle market, capturing the hearts of early EV adopters in the U.S., Europe, and China. Known for its cutting-edge software, seamless integration with the Supercharger network, and unmatched performance, the Model 3 faced little to no competition—until BYD launched the Seal in China in 2022 and Europe in the fall of 2023. As a result, the comparisons with Tesla’s once unrivaled Model 3 began in earnest.
The BYD Seal has proven to be a formidable competitor, matching the Model 3 in nearly every category. Not only does the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Seal come at a more affordable price point, but it’s also reportedly faster, according to CarWow drag tests.
The Rapid Growth of China’s EV Market
China has rapidly commercialized and democratized electric vehicles and EV batteries, significantly outpacing other countries. As of May 2024, China’s plug-in car market achieved an impressive 44% market share. While the U.S. is taking steps to bridge the gap, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will yield significant results.
Seal’s Reception in Europe
The BYD Seal has received mostly positive reviews from the European automotive press. InsideEVs’ correspondent Alex Goy was impressed with the Seal but noted it wasn’t as polished as it could have been. Kyle Conner, the host of Out of Spec Reviews, also tested the Seal in Europe. Conner lauded the Seal’s build quality, likening it to that of an Audi and noting that it was "way more luxurious than the Model 3."
A Close Match on Paper
Both electric sedans are closely matched in terms of specifications. In the U.K., the Seal starts at approximately £45,000 for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version and £48,000 for the AWD version. The RWD version offers a WLTP range of 354 miles, while the AWD version has a range of 323 miles.
In comparison, the RWD Model 3 starts at just under £40,000, with a range of 318 miles. The £50,000 Long Range AWD version of the Model 3 boasts a WLTP range of 390 miles.
Interior and Build Quality
Space optimization is a strong suit for the Seal. According to Conner, the Seal offers one of the best rear seats in its category with “Ioniq 6-like” knee room. He compared the overall interior quality to that of Genesis vehicles and noted that the space feels more comparable to a Model S rather than a Model 3.
Under the Hood
The BYD Seal is powered by an 82 kilowatt-hour structural “Blade” battery pack, based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry. Although LFP packs are less energy-dense than traditional nickel-based chemistries, they are more cost-effective and have a longer lifespan. The entry-level Model 3 also utilizes an LFP pack.
Infotainment System
The Seal features a highly adaptable infotainment system, allowing users to switch the screen orientation from horizontal to vertical as needed. The display is quick and responsive, and unlike Tesla and GM, BYD continues to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the Seal.
Performance and Handling
From behind the wheel, Conner noted that the Seal felt as fast as the Model 3 Performance. “It’s geared towards luxury and comfort, but from a performance standpoint, it’s quite capable,” he said. Remarkably, the Seal’s chassis dynamics and performance have also received praise, an area where Chinese cars have traditionally lagged.
Future Prospects in the U.S.
Despite the positive reception, the BYD Seal is unlikely to hit U.S. markets anytime soon due to punitive tariffs on Chinese imports. This is despite studies showing that 76% of American buyers under the age of 40 are open to Chinese-branded EVs. However, U.S. automakers have several affordable models in the pipeline, and buyers are hopeful these will also be competitive.
In conclusion, while the Tesla Model 3 once reigned supreme, the BYD Seal has emerged as a strong contender, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and affordability. It’s worth taking the time to explore this new competitor, especially through reviews like those from Out of Spec Reviews, to understand its full potential.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
7 Comments
Wow, this BYD Seal sounds AMAZING! A cheaper and faster car? I’m in! Tesla better watch out.
Tesla still better. BYD trying but they not Tesla.
Agreed Jane, nothing can beat the supercharger network of Tesla.
I didn’t know China made cars so good! Maybe I buy one someday, if it ever come to USA.
All these specs and STILL no mention of how it handles in the rain. A car review that skips the important stuff. Typical.
Maybe they think it doesn’t rain, LOL!
Sounds great and all, but who names a car ‘Seal’? What, did they run out of cool names?! 😂