This is a comprehensive comparison of the specs and features between the best selling electric sedan the Tesla Model 3 (updated 'Highland' edition) and its closest competitor, the BYD Seal. This comparison focuses on the 'Long Range' and 'Performance' variants of each model:
- BYD Seal Premium Extended Range
- BYD Seal Performance AWD
- Tesla Mode 3 Long Range
- Tesla Model 3 Performance ('21-'23)
Note: As the specifications of the updated 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance have yet to be released we have used the figures of the outgoing model for this comparison.
▶MORE: 2024 BYD Seal Premium Review
Price and Incentives
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the more expensive model, albeit it shines in a number of front including acceleration and charging.
As of the date of this comparison, the Tesla Model 3 Performance is the most expensive model, albeit it also offers the quickest off the mark. Both the BYD variants are priced below the $68,750 mark making them eleibiles for EV rebates in NSW and SA. All will be eligible for the FBT exemption as they are below the LCT of $89,332.
For a more detailed breakdown of eligible government incentives, estimated driveaway price and total cost of ownership - use the zecar cost of ownership calculator.
Did You Know?
Due to the FBT exemption, procuring either EV through a novated lease will be substantially cheaper than an outright purchase.
For complete price, specifications and features, view the following articles:
Size and Dimensions
The BYD Seal is the larger car overall, but not by much.
Both EVs are considered to be practical cars and offer best in class passenger and storage space, attributable to being built on dedicated EV platforms. The BYD Seal is the bigger car (+80mm length and 45mm wheelbase), which translates to more interior passenger space. The Model 3 however has more storage space with an extra 194 litres in the boot and 38 litres in the frunk.
Range and Performance
The Tesla Model 3 offers better outright range and acceleration but you're paying for it.
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range has the highest claimed WLTP range of 629km versus the BYD Seal's claim of 570km. Despite having a smaller battery, the Model 3's superior range is due its lower weight and and Tesla's leading drivetrain efficiency.
The Tesla Model 3 Performance offers the fastest acceleration, hitting the 100 km/hr in 3.3 seconds (with 'one-foot roll-out' subtracted). The BYD Seal Performance hits the 0.-100 km/hr mark in 3.8 seconds.
Battery and Charging
The Tesla Model 3 offers superior charging performance across both AC and DC Charging.
On the home AC charging front the Model 3 provides faster charging speeds. The Model 3 charges at 11kW and can reach a full charge in 8 hours. The BYD Seal charges at 7kW and will take nearly 12 hours to reach a ful charge.
Using public DC charging, the Tesla Model 3 tops ups faster. The Model 3 Long Range charges at a maximum rate of 250kW and can reach 10% to 80% in about 22 minutes. The BYD Seal charges at maximum rate of 150kW and will take about 34 minutes for the same level of charge.
The BYD Seal features the larger battery pack at 82.6kWh which provides more energy for range but also results in higher weight. It should be noted the Seal battery uses the LFP chemistry which benefits from charging to 100%, whereas the Model 3's NMC/NCA chemistry means charging is typically recommended to 90%.
The BYD Seal offers the advantage of V2L which allows you to use the car's battery as a mobile power bank. This could be useful for camping, roadtrips and potentially in the event of a blackout.
Read More:
Calculate your personal charging costs and times for each model using this calculator.
Driver Technology
Tesla's Autopilot system is one of the best for highway driving.
The Model 3 and Seal offer similar levels of driver assist technology (ADAS) features on paper, however in reality the Tesla Autopilot system will likely offer a better experience for highway driving. We will confirm this once we have the opportunity to test the Seal's ADAS system. The Seal however features an exceptional 360 degree camera which the Model 3 lacks.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Both the Seal and Model 3 offer a strong infotainment and connectivity package.
The Model 3 is highlighted by its best in-class 15 inch centre screen, user-friendly interface and high quality premium sound system.
The Seal's infotainment system also features a 15 inch screen, is android based and is offered through and 12-speaker sound system. The Seal however features wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay, something Tesla has yet to offer in any of its vehicle models.
Both models features mobile apps which allow functionalities such as remote lock, pre-heating/cooling and charge monitoring. At this stage, the Tesla mobile app offers more features.
Other Features
The Seal and Model 3 offers glass panoramic roof and heat pumps as standard.
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