How is BYD better than Tesla

BYD vs Tesla: A Detailed Comparison 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity as more consumers seek out sustainable transportation options. Two of the biggest players in the EV market are BYD and Tesla. But how exactly do these two manufacturers and their offerings compare? This article will provide a detailed overview of BYD and Teslas histories, manufacturing, technologies, offerings, and more to help you understand the key similarities and differences.

A Brief History

First, lets look at the backgrounds of these two influential companies.

BYD

BYD (short for Build Your Dreams) was founded in 1995 in Shenzhen, China. It began as a manufacturer of rechargeable batteries for mobile phones and laptops. Over the past two decades, it has grown into an automaker and expanded globally. Today, BYD is focused on three main industries automobiles, batteries and energy storage, and electronics. It aims to create sustainable technologies like electric transportation and renewable energy solutions. The company employs over 200,000 people across six continents.

Tesla

Tesla was founded much more recently in 2003 in San Carlos, California by current CEO Elon Musk and other co-founders. Teslas mission is to accelerate the worlds transition to sustainable energy and transportation through increasingly affordable EVs and energy products. Over the past 15 years, Tesla has become the worlds most valuable automaker. It helped catalyze the shift towards EVs with its luxury models and emphasis on technology and performance. The company now produces EVs, related technologies, and solar energy products around the world.

Manufacturing and Sales

When it comes to manufacturing capacity, BYD far surpasses Tesla given its longer history and larger employee base.

BYD operates several vehicle production facilities with tens of gigawatt hours of battery production capacity. This allows BYD to manufacture and sell hundreds of thousands of EVs each year. In fact, BYD is the current top selling EV brand globally thanks to strong domestic sales in China.

Conversely, Teslas vehicle production has struggled with well publicized manufacturing challenges over the years. However, Tesla expects to produce over 1.5 million EVs in 2023 thanks to new factories in Austin, Berlin, and Shanghai.

Both automakers prioritize vertical integration in their operations from batteries to solar panels and semiconductors. But BYD notably carries out almost all manufacturing itself, while Tesla relies more on external suppliers and partners. In terms of sales, Tesla leads in many Western countries like the United States and Western Europe. However, BYD dominates the Chinese EV market and is looking to expand globally in coming years.

Technologies and Innovations

BYD and Tesla take different approaches when it comes to core technologies and innovations.

Batteries

BYD manufactures its own lithium iron phosphate (LFP) blade batteries. It claims these batteries are more chemically stable and support faster charging compared to typical EV batteries.

In contrast, Tesla uses lithium-ion batteries with nickel based cathodes supplied by Panasonic and CATL. These batteries deliver very high energy density for extended range. However, BYD criticizes the safety risks of lithium-ion batteries.

Tesla is also developing next generation 4680 battery cells in house. These tabless batteries promise significant cost reductions and five times more energy capacity. BYD has hinted at its own next gen battery technology on the horizon as well.

Semiconductors

BYD designs and manufactures its own semiconductors for key systems like battery management and autonomous driving. The BYD Han EV for example features BYDs DiPilot driver assistance system and its own vehicle chipset.

Meanwhile, Tesla relies on external suppliers like AMD, Samsung, and Nvidia for the hardware and chips powering its vehicles. It sets itself apart with excellent software, over the air update capabilities, and the Full Self Driving beta system.

EV Platforms

BYD has developed its flexible e-Platform architectures for EVs. These modular platforms can accommodate a wide range of vehicle types and configurations.

On the other hand, Tesla engineered its vehicles inhouse from the ground up specifically for electric propulsion. This purpose built approach allows Tesla to highly optimize performance, safety, and interior space.

As you can see, BYD and Tesla take different technological approaches aligned with their respective strengths and priorities as companies.

Model Lineups and Offerings

BYD and Tesla offer broadly similar all electric lineups ranging from affordable sedans/hatchbacks to luxury SUVs. However, there are some key differences among their models.

BYD

BYDs lineup reflects its Chinese heritage with compact vehicles tailored to local urban transportation needs. BYDs most popular models include the Han luxury sedan, Song and Yuan SUVs, Qin and Dolphin compact sedans, and various Tang plug-in hybrid SUV models.

BYD positions itself as an affordable EV option. Most models fall into the $25,000 to $50,000 price range before incentives. However, the flagship Han EV costs over $70,000.

Tesla

In comparison, Tesla targets higher price points, premium styling, and high performance with its trifecta lineup of luxury sedans and crossovers the Model 3, Model Y, and flagship Model S and Model X. Base prices range from ~$48,000 for the Model 3 to $105,000+ for the Model X Plaid variant.

Tesla plans to eventually launch a smaller, more affordable hatchback priced at around $25,000. This model will bring Tesla closer to BYDs compact vehicle offerings and price points. But for now, Tesla focuses squarely on the luxury EV segment.

Charging Infrastructure

A robust charging infrastructure enhances the convenience and practicality of owning any EV. Here too, BYD and Tesla take slightly different approaches based on their unique ecosystems.

BYD vehicles support both proprietary BYD charging connectors and global standard plug types. BYD is actively building out charging stations, battery swap facilities, and other infrastructure across China to serve its domestic customer base.

Tesla operates its vast proprietary Supercharger fast charging network worldwide with over 40,000 Superchargers worldwide and counting. This exclusive Tesla infrastructure provides incredible convenience for Tesla owners. But it doesnt directly contribute to widespread EV adoption by non Tesla vehicles.

As the EV market grows, shared and standardized charging solutions will likely prevail over proprietary networks. But for now, both BYD and Tesla leverage their own infrastructures to closely match their products and customers.

Autonomous Driving Capabilities

Autonomous driving technology is an important frontier for EV makers. Here, Tesla holds a strong lead over BYD.

Teslas Autopilot advanced driver assistance system comes standard across Teslas lineup. Customers can also add the $15,000 Full Self Driving Capability package for sophisticated autonomous features like automatic lane changes, navigation to chosen destinations, and advanced object recognition powered by Tesla Vision.

BYD offers its comparable DiPilot system on the Han sedan and other select models. DiPilot includes typical ADAS functionality like traffic jam assist, adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking. However, it does not approach Full Self Drivings capabilitiesyet. BYD hints that fully autonomous driving could arrive soon.

For now though, Tesla clearly sets itself apart on the autonomous driving front thanks to billions of miles of real world testing data accumulated across its global fleet.

Performance and Efficiency

As you might expect, performance and efficiency benchmarks vary across BYD and Teslas model ranges. But some general trends emerge.

BYD EVs excel at efficiency thanks to the companys battery expertise. For example, the Han EV achieves an exceptional NEDC range of 605 km (376 miles). Other models like the Qin Pro EV sedan likewise deliver excellent energy efficiency and range from BYDs blade batteries.

Conversely, Tesla obsesses over acceleration, power and thrilling performance with track capable trims like the Model S Plaid hitting 60 mph in under two seconds. The downside is efficiency can suffer in pursuit of performance. Most Tesla models achieve EPA ranges around 300 to 400 miles per charge depending on configuration.

So while Tesla clearly dominates on acceleration and fun to drive dynamics, BYD edges ahead on overall driving range and transport efficiency. Ultimately though, both automakers continue pushing EV performance boundaries in different but equally impressive ways.

Safety

Safety is paramount for any vehicle, and electric cars are no exception. Once again, BYD and Tesla take slightly different approaches here.

BYD emphasizes its automotive grade lithium iron phosphate battery chemistry as inherently less prone to thermal runaway and fire issues compared to lithium ion batteries. The company also equips models like the Han EV with extensive safety redundancies across critical vehicle systems.

Tesla does not break down specific safety technologies and features. Rather, it stakes its reputation on real world data. Tesla claims one accident for every 4.31 million miles driven in which drivers were using Autopilot technology. This compares very favorably to the average of one accident for every 0.5 million miles driven globally. So Teslas safety record speaks for itself.

Until BYD vehicles rack up billions more test miles, Tesla likely maintains an overall edge on demonstrated safety. But BYDs fundamental battery chemistry and safety systems do merit consideration by prospective owners as well.

Conclusion

BYD and Tesla take surprisingly different approaches across many facets of EV design, technology, and manufacturing. Key differences include:

• Manufacturing: BYD favors vertical integration while Tesla uses more external suppliers
• Batteries: BYD produces its own LFP blade batteries; Tesla uses Panasonic/CATL lithium-ion cells
• Semiconductors: BYD manufactures its own chips in house; Tesla relies on AMD/Nvidia/Samsung
• Charging Infrastructure: BYD builds proprietary infrastructure focused on China, while Tesla offers its vast global Supercharger network
• Autonomy: Tesla boasts a formidable lead in self driving functions with Full Self Driving Capability
• Performance: Tesla obsesses over acceleration and power; BYD edges out Tesla on overall efficiency
• Safety: Both boast excellent safety based on real world data, battery fundamentals, and overall design

Yet in other areas like model lineups and basic EV powertrain approaches, BYD and Tesla adopt surprisingly similar strategies.

As the global transition towards EVs accelerates, BYD and Tesla will continue competing for dominance across the biggest auto market (China) and highest-margin luxury segment. This competition will ultimately benefit consumers and the environment as both companies push each other to enhance EV technology even further in the coming years.

FAQs

What is BYDs most popular model?

BYDs top selling model is the Han luxury EV sedan thanks to its combination of style, seating for 5, ample range from BYDs blade batteries, and relatively reasonable pricing compared to the imported Tesla Model 3 in China.

How much cheaper is BYD vs Tesla?

On average, BYD vehicles start around $25,000 to $50,000 USD before incentives for sedans and SUVs. Tesla models range from $48,000 on the low end (Model 3) to $105,000+ for the Model X Plaid. So BYD targets more budget conscious mainstream buyers, while Tesla focuses exclusively on the luxury categories for now.

Which company is growing faster?

BYD is currently growing faster in terms of units sold thanks to its dominance of the Chinese EV market. However, Tesla is ramping up production capacity more quickly as new factories come online in Germany, Texas, and elsewhere. Long term, both automakers are poised for tremendous growth this decade.

Is BYD coming to America?

Not yet, but its expected in the next few years. BYD is reportedly looking for a US manufacturing facility location. The company already sells electric buses, trucks, forklifts and other commercial EVs in the US. Entering the consumer passenger EV segment is the likely next step.

Which company leads on self-driving technology?

Tesla holds a commanding lead on autonomous driving over BYD and other rivals. Its billions of test miles accumulated from customer owned vehicles gives Tesla an insurmountable data advantage for the foreseeable future. BYD is actively developing more advanced ADAS and self driving systems but is still playing catch up to Teslas capabilities.

2023 Tesla Model 3 vs BYD seal: SPEC BATTLE!

If youre one of the thousands of Aussies in the market for a Tesla Model 3, chances are your interest was piqued by the recent pricing announcement for the 2024 BYD Seal.

The Seal is a direct competitor for the Model 3, and the pair align closely on size and a number of other key metrics.

One key number that differs markedly, however, is price. At $49,888 for the entry-level Dynamic RWD, the BYD Seal undercut the cheapest Model 3 by a whopping $12,012.

January 2024: Spec battle brought to life in three-car comparo!

December 2023: Seal Performance and updated Model 3 driven!

Story continues...

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Unsurprisingly, that price gap sent social media into a frenzy, with some calling the BYD Seal an EV game changer! while others asked Has the Tesla Model 3 finally met its match?

To help you better understand how these two electric sedans line up, this article will explore the differences in their size, performance and cabin executions. Well also compare their specs for battery size, recharging times and range.

Well be comparing the BYD Seal with the facelifted 2024 Tesla Model 3, due here later this year with a revised exterior design, upgraded cabin and improved driving range.

Is the BYD Seal a smarter buy than a Tesla Model 3?

Lets dive into the numbers.

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JUMP AHEAD

Dimensions & boot space

At 4800mm long, 1875mm wide and 1460mm tall, the BYD Seal is 80mm longer, 58mm narrower and 19mm taller than the Tesla Model 3.

It also rolls on a 45mm longer wheelbase (2920mm vs 2875mm), which could help to give the Seal an advantage when it comes to cabin space.

One area the BYD trails the Tesla, however, is boot space. The BYD Seal offers a 400-litre boot and an extra 50L in the nose. Thats significantly less than you get in the Tesla, which has a 561L boot and an 88L frunk.

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Range and performance

This is where things get interesting.

While the BYD Seal does undercut the Model 3 by $12,012, that price difference is for the entry-level Seal Dynamic RWD which isnt in the same league as the Tesla for performance, range or charging capacity.

With 150kW/310Nm on tap and a 0-100km/h time of 7.5 seconds, the Seal Dynamic trails the Model 3 RWD's 208kW/420Nm (+58kW/110Nm) outputs and 100km/h sprint of 6.1 seconds (-1.4sec).

The BYDs claimed WLTP driving range also trails the Tesla by a decent margin (460km vs 513km). And the Seal Dynamics 61.4kWh battery can only accept 110kW DC fast charging, which is well down on the 170kW maximum in the Model 3 RWD.

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So while the BYD Seal Dynamic is substantially cheaper than the Model 3 RWD, that price advantage does bring some compromises.

A closer match for the Tesla, at least in performance and range, is the mid-spec Seal Premium RWD. At $58,798 its almost $10K pricer than the entry-level Seal but it aligns more closely with the Tesla ($61,900) and is lineball with the Model 3 when it comes to spec.

The BYD, for example, has 230kW/360Nm which is 22kW more than the Tesla but 60Nm less. The Seal is also marginally quicker to 100km/h (5.9sec plays 6.1sec) and its 82.5kWh battery accepts up to 150kW DC fast charging.

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That still trails the Tesla, however, which can charge at 170kW. One area the BYD trumps the Tesla is range, with the seal Premium offering 570km on the WLTP cycle compared to the Model 3s 513km.

Things are equally close when you compare the flagship versions of both cars. These models, the Seal Performance and Model 3 Long Range, are both all-wheel drive and cost $68,798 and $71,900 respectively.

The BYD is the more powerful and quicker of the pair, thanks to outputs of 390kW/670Nm and a 0-100km/h claim of 3.8 seconds. Thats 24kW/177Nm more than the Tesla and 0.6sec quicker to 100km/h. But the BYD pays a price for its extra performance and trails the Teslas WLTP range by a significant margin: 520km for the Seal Performance vs 629Nm for the Model 3 Long Range.

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If any of the terms in this section have left you scratching your head, these articles will help bring you up to speed!

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Charging rates

This is one area where the Tesla holds a clear advantage. On an AC charger, the BYDs maximum charge rate is 7kW, meaning itll take between 8hr 46m to 11h 47m for a full charge, depending on which battery size you go for.

The Tesla, meanwhile, accepts 11kW AC charging and will take roughly 6.5 hours to reach a full charge in the Model 3 RWD. The larger battery in the Model 3 Long Range will take around 8 hours to go from 0-100 per cent on an AC charger.

The gap between the BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3 is even larger when hooked up to a DC fast charger. As previously mentioned, the BYD Seal has a maximum DC fast charging rate of 110kW for the Dynamic RWD and 150kW for the mid-spec Premium and flagship Performance versions.

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On a 150kW DC fast charger, the BYD Seal can top up its battery from 10-80 percent in 37 minutes.

The Model 3 RWD, meanwhile, can accept 170kW DC fast changing, while the Long Range has a max charge rate of 250kW. Tesla says the latter allows you to add up to 282km of range in 15 minutes.

Notably, the Teslas battery is also far more efficient. The Model 3s battery is smaller than those in the Seal, yet the Tesla offers superior range. A smaller battery pack also helps to save weight and improve efficiency, and every version of the Model 3 is lighter than its BYD counterpart, sometimes by as much as 357kg.

Less weight doesnt only improvement performance and handling but also range, so its a virtuous circle.

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Interior and cabin design

Tesla is famous (or is that infamous?) for its minimal cabin design, and the updated 2024 Model 3 features an even more spartan layout than before.

As part of its major facelift, the 2023 Model 3 boasts a new dash design, a revised centre console, new seats (now with ventilation) and a new steering wheel.

Tesla has also deleted the stalks behind the steering wheel to give the cabin an even less cluttered appearance (and a more affordable parts bill), with these functions moved into touch-sensitive buttons on the wheel or into the centre touchscreen. Yep, your blinkers are now buttons on the steering wheel itself.

The Model 3s centre screen is now slightly larger at 15.4-inches, has a thinner bezel and is said to offer faster response times.

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Image: 2024 Tesla Model 3 interior

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The cabin in the BYD Seal couldnt be more different.

Its design is busier in a more conventional fashion, with more buttons and an even bigger 15.6-inch centre display that can rotate between portrait and landscape orientations.

Importantly, the Seal features a head-up display in Premium and Performance models, which is tech notably absent from the Tesla Model 3.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also featured with the Seal another omission in the Model 3, although it somewhat makes up for this with a comprehensive range of available media apps. CarPlay in the Seal is also wired rather than wireless, which feels a touch outdated in 2023.

Both the Tesla and BYD offer panoramic sunroofs and dedicated air vents for rear passengers, although the Model 3s facelift has added an 8.0-inch touchscreen at the back of the centre console, offering rear occupants control of their climate, music and entertainment apps.

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Model 3 rear seats

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Seal rear seats

Pricing

Its easy to fixate on the BYD Seals sizeable $12,012 price advantage over the Tesla Model 3, but as weve established, that price gap is something of a red herring.

It relates only to the entry-level BYD Seal Dynamic RWD which, although well specced, cant compete with the entry-level Model 3 RWD for performance outputs, recharging times, acceleration or range.

Once you discount the BYDs cheapest variant, the BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3 actually align very closely on spec and price.

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The mid-spec Seal Premium and Model 3 RWD offer similar levels of performance, range and equipment but its the BYD that carries the slightly lower price tag: $58,798 vs $61,900.

Its a similar story when you compare the BYD Seal Performance ($68,798) and Tesla Model 3 long-range ($71,900), although this pair have a slightly different focus to help split them. The BYD is quicker and more powerful while the Tesla is marginally slower but offers a longer range.

No matter which version you choose, the BYD holds an advantage when it comes to warranty, with its six-year / 150,000km coverage period trumping the Model 3s warranty of four years / 80,000km.

On the road: How do they compare in the driving department?

Local deliveries for the Seal don't begin until December, and the facelifted Model 3 won't arrive until early next year, so it'll be a while before we can point these two EVs at each other.