BYD: Better than Tesla?

BYD: Better than Tesla?

Two of the most prominent companies in the EV (electric vehicle) market are BYD (Build Your Dreams) and Tesla. Each has their own strengths and unique approaches to electric cars.

Where did they come from?

BYD is a Chinese company, began in 1995, initially focusing on producing rechargeable batteries. They then made the next logical step and dived into the automotive market. BYD have a strong presence in their home country and have been expanded recently into Europe and South America with great success.

The American company, Tesla, was founded in 2003. They primarily focus on electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions. Currently dominating the North American market, the name Tesla is recognisable worldwide. The company was started by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning, later joined by entrepreneur Elon Musk.

What do they make?

BYD offers a wide range of electric vehicles with different purposes, such as electric buses, trucks and cars. Their car models, particularly the BYD Seal and BYD Dolphin, are becoming popular very quickly here in the UK.

Tesla focuses mainly on high performance electric cars. These include the Model S, Model 3, Model X and Model Y. Their newest addition, the Cybertruck, has caused controversy since its announcement.

How are they different from each other?

BYD uses its expertise in battery production to create cars with maximum range, battery quality and chassis design. These three qualities make a great base for any electric car. Also, as BYD are a Chinese brand, they have the ace card for creating batteries for their vehicles at a cheaper price than most of their rivals.

Tesla’s strong brand image, primarily led from the eccentric Elon Musk, was a triumph in making electric cars ‘cool’. Electric cars have had a place in history for many decades. However, Tesla focused on how to make an electric car an attractive alternative to everyone’s current petrol and diesel cars. They also push hard on including class leading technology in all their vehicles.

Charging, battery life and range

BYD’s Blade Battery offers competitive battery ranges between 250-350 miles (WLTP). Its charging speeds are lower, 150kW specifically. While this isn’t as convenient as fast charging, it has been proved that it helps prolong battery life. It also helps the cars remain affordable and safe.

Tesla capitalises on its extensive Supercharger network. With fast charging available up to 250kW, a Tesla can regain up to 200 miles in about 15 minutes. With a total range from around 250-400 miles (WLTP), Tesla focuses on making longer, faster ranges easier.

So, which is better?

If you’re after advanced technology and a well-known brand name, Tesla is the better option for you. However, with BYD making a fast-growing name for themselves on quality, price and technology themselves, the Chinese market disrupter could be a good option to back early on...

Introducing the BYD range at Bristol Street Motors

Be among the first to check out our range of BYD vehicles, freshly launched at Bristol Street Motors this week. Models include the BYD Dolphin, the BYD Seal, and the BYD Atto 3. From family hatchbacks to speedy saloons, we have them all.

Browse our BYD collection here