Tesla vs. BYD: How Do They Compare?

Updated: October 11, 2023 by Abby | Leave a comment

Tesla, Inc. and BYD (Build Your Dreams) Auto are two major electric vehicle (EV) automakers. While Tesla is based in the United States and BYD in China, these popular brands are going head-to-head in markets around the world as they compete to become the world’s leader in EV technology. Explore the key similarities and differences between these automakers and their most popular EVs today.

Formerly known as Tesla Motors, the major EV automaker was founded by a group of engineers and entrepreneurs in 2003. The company was named in honor of Nikola Tesla, the inventor. After launching the head-turning and award-winning Roadster, the company made a name for itself with safe, fast, and iconic luxury EV production.

Elon Musk became the CEO of Tesla, Inc. and continues to lead the company. As part of the company’s commitment to the future of sustainable energy, Tesla also develops home energy systems and is working toward self-driving vehicle production. The company operates Supercharger stations across the United States, Europe, and other locations to recharge vehicles.

BYD Auto Company started in 1995 as a battery manufacturer. The company continues to manufacture solar cells, smartphones, and other electronic devices. In 2003, BYD Auto was created to develop plug-in hybrid and fully electric vehicles. The founder and current CEO, Wang Chuanfu, was once the richest man in China.

BYD is a very diverse EV company, manufacturing many EV models in the e-Series, Dynasty Series, and Ocean Series. The company also manufactures electric buses, forklifts, trucks, the SkyRail system, solar panels, and energy storage systems. BYD discontinued all internal combustion engine manufacturing in March 2022 to focus exclusively on electric vehicle sales. BYD is backed by Warren Buffet, who invested $232 million in the company in 2008 before it became a popular Chinese automaker.

While BYD may be making headway in the Chinese market, Tesla remains the largest EV manufacturer in the world by market cap and net worth. BYD electric vehicles for consumers aren’t currently available in the United States, though they plan to enter the market sometime before 2024.

©Teddy Leung/Shutterstock.com

The Tesla Model 3 is a compact EV with an MSRP of $46,990. It’s the most affordable Tesla, though it still costs more than the Han EV, which will have an MSRP in China of approximately $32,800. The Model 3 is a stylish, popular electric vehicle with the following features:

The 2022 Han EV offers several trim levels that are competitive with the Model 3 in terms of price and features. This BYD luxury sedan comes in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. Here are the key features of this BYD offering with a recent release date:

The speed and horsepower are comparable between these luxury sedans. The Tesla Model 3 offers slightly more miles per charge but less horsepower than the four-wheel-drive version of the Han EV.

Tesla’s sedan may have more recognizable driver-assist features, but BYD’s DiPilot system also offers a forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and other driver assistance similarities. Both offer a safe and comfortable customer experience, though the glass roof on the Model 3 offers a more panoramic view.

©ginger_polina_bublik/Shutterstock.com

One of the most popular Tesla EVs is the Model Y. This compact SUV is versatile, flexible, and more affordable than the Model X, Tesla’s luxury EV sport utility vehicle. There are many pros and cons between the two Tesla SUVs but the Model Y is more comparable with the BYD Tang EV. The Model Y was introduced in 2019 and remains a competitive option for EV owners looking for a practical customer experience. Here are some performance features of Tesla’s SUV:

Another BYD vehicle not currently available in the United States, the Tang EV has many similarities and differences from the Model Y. This EV SUV uses the same innovative Blade Battery technology as other BYD vehicles. Here are some key features to consider as you weigh its pros and cons:

Both SUVs offer similar ranges and seats. The Model Y tops the Tang EV in speed and price. While both vehicles feature a stylish design, Tesla has a signature look that’s easy to recognize and highly popular. The Tang EV has a more traditional exterior and is slightly larger.

Both EV companies promise to deliver a strong lineup of EV vehicles. While BYD EVs aren’t currently available in the United States, they’re expected to be available shortly. There isn’t currently a U.S. release date for consumer BYD EVs. The more affordable price tags that accompany BYD vehicles have helped them expand to being a significant competitor of Tesla.

Another significant feature of BYD is its diversity. Rather than just focusing on luxury EVs and alternative energy solutions for homeowners, BYD also manufactures electric trucks, railway technology, batteries, and solar technology. This manufacturing diversity is one of the important differences between the companies.

Several Tesla models remain the world’s best-selling EVs for a reason. After comparing the pros and cons, Tesla pulls ahead in safety, stylish design features, and building a strong community around their vehicles. It’s easy to see BYD Auto as a strong competitor of the EV giant but it remains to be seen which company will be the long-term leader in the industry.

In May of 2023, Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and product architect said the company will make a debut in the advertising world. Prior to this, the company’s sales relied upon word-of-mouth. The company posted their first ad, a two-minute driver testimonial, on its Asian Twitter account.

BYD announced in May 2023 that they’re assessing building a plant in Europe and is seeking an appropriate location. BYD’s electronic vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity overseas. The company started construction on its first overseas manufacturing facility for passenger vehicles earlier this year.

What are Tesla and BYD known for?

Tesla, led by Elon Musk, is best known for its luxury EV vehicle design, its self-driving car goals, and its commitment to renewable energy. BYD Auto is one of China’s leading EV automakers known for affordable EVs, safe battery technology, and device manufacturing.

Who's more successful, Tesla or BYD?

Tesla is currently a more successful electric vehicle company. In 2021, Tesla sold over 930,000 EVs while BYD sold over 320,000.

Is Tesla bigger than BYD?

Yes, Tesla has more yearly global electric vehicle sales than BYD and other automakers. BYD does, however, have commercial EV and smart device manufacturing areas to create a more diverse company.

Which is better, Tesla or BYD?

As companies, Tesla sells more EVs than BYD and offers more luxury vehicle options. BYD, however, offers more EV options and lower prices.

How long do Tesla cars last?

Tesla vehicles have drivetrains that are expected to last around 750,000 miles, though the company’s goal is a lifetime of one million miles. The batteries reduce in charge capacity by approximately 10% after 200,000 miles.

What are the weaknesses of Tesla?

Tesla doesn’t offer the same variety of EVs, particularly in the entry-level price range, like BYD and other competitors. The company is also reliant on Elon Musk for its branding and a part of its following.

Which is faster, Tesla or BYD?

The fastest BYD car is the Han EV, with top speeds of around 118 miles per hour. Tesla’s 2022 Roadster, with an expected release date in 2023, is estimated to have a top speed of over 250 miles per hour. Even the Model X has a top speed of 155 miles per hour, which is faster than BYD competitors.

How does BYD compare to Tesla?

BYD offers affordable EVs and luxury models that are comparable in price and some performance features to the Tesla Model Y and Model 3. BYD is currently growing faster, though the automaker hasn’t reached the sales or net worth figures of Tesla.

Does Tesla use BYD batteries?

Chinese media sources state BYD has received a 10GWh order from Tesla, which would supply about 45% of the company’s batteries. The news has yet to be officially confirmed by either automaker.

Abby has a B.A. in English, and has written short and long fiction, with a published novel, lyrics and poetry. She's also done interviews and pieces on the folk music industry. Besides writing and editing for A-Z-Animals and History-Computer, she writes for an entertainment e-zine, and educational materials. She's built multiple websites from scratch and provided content to them. In her spare time, she enjoys sci-fi and social gaming.

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