In a real-world range test, the BYD Seal, a Chinese-made electric vehicle, showcased its capabilities against the Tesla Model 3. The BYD Seal, known for its dual-motor version and impressive WLTP-rated range of 323 miles, was put to the test by Nevo EV Review Ireland. The test aimed to see if the BYD Seal could handle a coast-to-coast trip in Ireland without needing a recharge.
what?
The BYD Seal AWD boasts 530 horsepower, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds, and costs around €50,000 ($54,400). During the test, starting with 99% charge and an indicated range of 322 miles, the Seal finished the 199-mile journey with 28% charge remaining and a 90-mile range.
Why does it matter?
The BYD Seal’s performance in the range test reveals its efficiency, recording an energy consumption of 17 kWh/100 km in city driving. Comparatively, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range dual-motor offers a higher WLTP-rated range of 390 miles with a similar price tag. However, the Seal fell short by around 34 miles from its indicated range, highlighting a discrepancy in actual versus advertised performance.
How is it going to shape the future?
As Chinese electric vehicles gain popularity globally, the BYD Seal’s real-world test provides valuable insights for potential buyers. While the Seal proves suitable for long-distance journeys, the discrepancy in range raises questions about advertised versus actual performance. As EV technology advances, consumer expectations for accurate range estimations will likely drive improvements in transparency and reliability in the industry.