Tesla has finally launched the Model Y in India, marking its long-awaited commencement of operations
In this post, we compare the new Tesla Model Y and the BYD Sealion 7 on the basis of specs, features and prices. After discussions lasting for a couple of years, Tesla has finally inaugurated its first store in Mumbai. More showrooms are planned to open in the coming months, starting with Delhi. Needless to say, there is a massive buzz around the Model Y. On the other hand, BYD is one of the biggest rivals to Tesla, not just in India, but globally. It has constantly been expanding its global footprint to take the EV industry by storm. For now, let us compare the two EVs.
Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7 – Price
The Tesla Model Y comes in two variants – Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive. These bear a retail sticker of Rs 59.89 lakh and Rs 67.89 lakh, ex-showroom, respectively. Note that if you wish to opt for Auto Pilot Autonomous Driving Technology, you will need to shell out an additional amount of Rs 6 lakh. On the other hand, the BYD Sealion 7 is also available in two avatars – Premium and Performance. These bear a price tag of Rs 48.90 lakh and Rs 54.90 lakh, ex-showroom, respectively. Hence, the Chinese EV evidently has an edge in this regard.
| Price (ex-sh.) | Tesla Model Y | BYD Sealion 7 |
| Base Model | Rs 59.89 lakh | Rs 48.90 lakh |
| Top Model | Rs 67.89 lakh | Rs 54.90 lakh |
Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7 – Specs
Let us now discuss the specifications of both these electric SUVs. The Tesla Model Y offers two battery options – a 63 kWh for Rear-Wheel Drive and an 83 kWh for Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive. These figures are from global models, as Tesla India’s site doesn’t list them clearly. The larger battery gives a WLTP range of 622 km per charge, while the smaller one offers 500 km. The Rear-Wheel Drive sprints from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The Long Range does it slightly quicker in 5.6 seconds. Power output stands at 283 hp and 312 hp, respectively. Both versions have a top speed of 201 km/h. With a 250 kW Supercharger, the Long Range can gain 267 km of range in just 15 minutes. The sleek SUV coupe has a drag coefficient of 0.22.
On the other hand, the BYD Sealion 7 comes with large 82.5 kWh and 91.3 kWh batteries using Blade Battery tech. This setup is known for being safe and highly efficient. It features iTAC (Intelligent Torque Active Control) and CTB (Cell To Body) structure. It also packs the world’s first 8-in-1 electric powertrain in a production car. This includes key parts like the VCU, BMS, MCU, PDU, DC-DC converter, onboard charger, motor, and gearbox in one unit. The iTAC system adjusts drive torque using torque shift, cut-off, and negative torque to prevent skidding. Power ranges from 308 hp / 380 Nm to 523 hp / 690 Nm. The RWD model offers a WLTP range of 482 km. The AWD version drops slightly to 455 km. The top trim provides over 500 km of range. In sport mode, it sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. A 250 kW DC fast charger powers the battery from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes.
| Specs | Tesla Model Y | BYD Sealion 7 |
| Battery | 63 kWh and 83 kWh | 82.5 kWh or 91.3 kWh |
| Power | 283 hp and 312 hp | 308 hp – 523 hp |
| Torque | – | 380 Nm – 690 Nm |
| Range | 500 km and 622 (WLTP) | 455 km – 500 km (WLTP) |
| Charging | 250 kW DC | 230 kW DC |
| Length | 4,790 mm | 4,830 mm |
| Width | 1,982 mm | 1,925 mm |
| Height | 1,624 mm | 1,620 mm |
Features Comparison
We know that modern car buyers want the absolute latest tech and convenience amenities in their vehicles. That is why carmakers often equip their products with all the bells and whistles. Both these EVs are well-appointed when it comes to in-cabin functionalities. Let us start with the new Tesla Model Y:
- 15.4-inch Infotainment Display
- Concealed AC Vents on Dashboard
- 8-inch Touchscreen Display for the Rear Passengers
- Steering-mounted Controls
- 19-inch Aero-optimized Alloy Wheels
- Flush-fitting Door Handles
- Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
- Powered 2-way Folding and Heated Rear Seats
- 9-speaker Audio System
- Ambient Lighting
- Wireless Phone Charger
- 8 Exterior Cameras
- Panoramic Glass Roof
- Connected Car Tech
- Heated Steering Wheel and Windshield
- Dashcam
On the other hand, the BYD Sealion 7 is also a feature-laden electric SUV. Some of its top highlights include:
- 15.6-inch Rotating Centre Screen
- 10.25-inch Full TFT LCD Instrument Cluster
- In-car WiFi Hotspot
- Cloud Service – BYD App
- Onboard 4G Connectivity
- Nappa Leather Seats
- 12-speaker Dynaudio Music System
- Ventilated and Heated Front Seats
- Heated Rear Seats
- Electrically Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Lumbar and Leg Support
- 50 W Wireless Charger
- 128-colour Ambient Lighting
- 520-litre Rear and 58-litre Front Storage
- Head-Up Display (HUD)
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Heat Pump
- ADAS Active Safety Package
- 360-degree Camera
- Multiple Airbags
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
- Onboard Navigation
My View
Now, choosing between these two can be quite tricky. Both these are relatively new car marques in our market. However, I would like to advise our readers to experience these two in the flesh to see how they feel to drive. Also, BYD has a significantly wider touchpoint network than Tesla. That could also play a key role for many buyers. Therefore, you need to consider all these aspects before making your final decision.
Also Read: Tesla Model Y vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 Comparison – Which is Better?
