BYD Seal Vs Tesla Model 3 compared: engines, autonomy and prices

In some countries on the European market, including the Italian one, the new BYD Seal electric sedan has recently debuted which intends to enter direct competition with the Tesla Model 3, fresh from restyling. Both models on paper have interesting features, offering good autonomy, technology and excellent performance.

So let's compare them, to discover their main features and the most important differences.

DIMENSIONS AND DESIGN

Let's start with the BYD Seal which measures4,800mm long x 1,875mm wide x 1,460mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,920mm. The ability of the trunk reaches 400 litres. In front, however, we find a small 53-litre frunk. Let's move on to the Tesla Model 3 which measures 4,720 mm long x 2,089 mm wide x 1,441 mm high. Following the restyling, capacity increased slightly. of the trunk which reaches 594 litres. The American electric sedan also has a small frunk of around 88 litres.

The dimensions between the two models are not very different. However, the Model 3offers greater space for luggage. The Chinese manufacturer's model is characterized by having a low and streamlined line. Much attention is paid to was given to the development of aerodynamics to improve overall efficiency and therefore reduce consumption. The result is a Cd of 0.219.

With the restyling, the American model is changed especially at the frontwhere it is The bonnet and bumper design have been revised. The headlights are also new. Behind we find new C-shaped light clusters. The new design is the fruit of careful work to improve efficiency. The Cx is dropped from 0.225 to 0.219.

INTERIOR

Inside the passenger compartment, the BYD Seal offers a lot of technology. Behind the steering wheel we find a 10.2-inch screen for the instruments, while centrally there is a 15.6-inch display of the infotainment system (the display can also be rotated vertically). The driver's seat is electrically adjustable in eight directions, so how the steering wheel is adjustable in four directions. In the dual engine version, the driver's seat is equipped with electrically adjustable lumbar support in four directions.

Let's move on to the interior of the Tesla Model 3 which has received a series of innovations with the restyling. First of all, the manufacturer has eliminated the levers on the steering column just like on the Model S and Model act on buttons directly on the steering wheel. The central screen of the infotainment system is always 15.4 inches but can count on a greater usable surface, thanks to the smaller frame. thin.

Now, we also find an 8-inch display on the rear from which to access the climate control and entertainment functions. Tesla then redesigned the central console and revised the audio system.

ENGINES

Let's talk about the powertrains. BYD Seal is proposed in two variants, the first with a single engine and the second with a double engine which also allows for all-wheel drive.

• BYD Seal single engine, RWD: 313 HP/230 kW and 360 Nm. 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, range of 570 km
• BYD Seal dual motor, AWD: 530 HP/390 kW and 670 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, range of 520 km

Both versions offer a speed maximum limited to 180 km/h.

Let's move on to the Tesla Model 3. As we know, the car manufacturer does not provide much technical information, limiting itself to sharing details on performance and autonomy. It should be underlined that following the restyling, the Performance version is not more available even if it seems that it will be proposed more forward.

• Tesla Model 3: 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and range of 554 km (18-inch wheels)/513 km ( 19 inch)
• Tesla Model 3 Long Range: 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and range of 678 km (18-inch wheels)/629 km (19-inch wheels)

For both models the speed is maximum is of 201 km/h (the pre-restyling versions could count on a higher top speed).

CHARGING

Both versions of the BYD Seal adopt a battery with LFP cells (lithium-iron-phosphate) 82.5 kWhwhich can be recharged in direct current up to a maximum power of 150 kW (30-80% in 26 minutes, 10-80% in 37 minutes). In alternating current, however, up to 11 kW.

Even on the battery front, Tesla does not provide much information. Tesla Model 3 with single engine has a battery with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) cells with a capacity of of approximately 60 kWh. The Long Range version has a battery with NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) cells of approximately 80-82 kWh. The first can rechargein direct current up to 170 kW and the second up to 250 kW. In alternating current up to 11 kW.

All Teslas have the great advantage of being able to access the Supercharger network, fast charging stations where it will be enough connect the cable to the car to start the energy supply. An advantage which, however, has recently become reduced given that the American company has started to open some of its stations to other electric cars too.

PRICES

How much does the BYD Seal cost in Italy?

• < strong>BYD Seal Design (rear-wheel drive): 46,890 euros
• BYD Seal Excellence (all-wheel drive): 49,390 euros

And the Tesla Model 3?

• Tesla Model 3: 42,490 euros
• Tesla Model 3 Long Range: 49,990 euros

INCENTIVES YES OR NO?

The only model included in the state incentives is the the Tesla Model 3 but only in the basic RWD version and only as long as no accessories are added.

We remind you that the Ecobonus for electric cars involves a contribution< /strong> of 3,000 euros without scrapping or 5,000 euros with scrapping of an old model. To be able to return, electric cars must not cost more than of 35,000 euros plus VAT, i.e. 42,700 euros.