Tesla Model Y vs BYD Seal U, showdown under €40,000

Until September 30, 2024, BYD is offering a discount of 1,900 euros on the Seal U. Enough to overshadow the queen Model Y?

The comparison between these two SUVs, Tesla and BYD, is obvious given their philosophies and claims. However, while the Tesla Model Y is exploding in sales and dominating the European electric market, the BYD Seal U remains relatively unknown, to put it politely and not say completely!

Both models share a philosophy that is becoming the norm with shared electric platforms. Like the American version, the Chinese model borrows the vast majority of components from a sedan, the Seal, reimagined as an SUV. Hence the U for utility. This method has worked at Tesla beyond all expectations to transition from Model 3 to Model Y, so why not copy the recipe? In Europe, the electric SUV is marketed in two trims: Comfort and Design. The base Comfort version was launched at 41,890 euros, while the higher-end Design equipment range was priced at 45,390 euros. A lost cause, especially with the latest price drops of the Tesla Model Y.

Choice of reason or choice of heart?

So at BYD, they thought it might not be a bad idea to go below the psychological threshold of 40,000 euros. What a good idea that is! Until September 30, 2024, the Seal U benefits from a discount of 1,900 euros, bringing it down to 39,990 euros. If we exclude the new models available in stock, which are totally nonexistent anyway, it’s cheaper than a Tesla Model Y Propulsion at 40,990 euros, after ecological bonuses.

The fight is balanced in terms of range with 420 km for the BYD compared to 450 for the Tesla, but there’s no competition when it comes to charging speed, which clearly favors the American model. It’s a shame knowing that BYD is a world leader in battery manufacturing and that its Blade technology can offer much better. However, the match is not over, as the philosophies of the two vehicles diverge inside. On one side, there’s the advocacy of minimalism with Tesla, and on the other, noble materials and manual controls with BYD. Ultimately, even though Tesla’s fame gives the Model Y a decisive advantage, it is clear that the choice will be made more by heart than by reason. Just like in the golden days of passionate automobiles.

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