Tesla Model Y outperforms BYD Sealion 7 in range and efficiency

In 2025, the electric vehicle market is crowded with new mid-size SUVs, with the BYD Sealion 7 emerging as a challenger to the Tesla Model Y's dominance. Extensive road tests conducted in the UK and abroad have highlighted the significant contrasts between these two vehicles, focusing on their specifications, performance, and overall value. The BYD Sealion 7 features a top-spec battery of 91.3kWh, but it only achieves a maximum claimed range of 312 miles, considerably less than the Tesla Model Y, which boasts a range of 387 miles with a smaller battery size of 75kWh. Both vehicles can sprint from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds, though the driving experience favors the Model Y due to its refined handling and comfortable ride. Interior quality plays a significant role in the comparison, with the BYD Sealion 7 presenting a luxurious cabin with spaciousness and premium materials. It offers slightly better practicality with a larger boot size of 520 liters and foldable seats enabling a total of 1,789 liters of cargo space. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y's boot is listed at 854 liters to the roof. Despite the roomy interior, it lacks the high-class ambiance reflected in the BYD vehicle, emphasizing the diversity of consumer preferences between the two options. Price is another critical factor, as the BYD Sealion 7 starts at £46,990, which is £2,000 more than the entry-level Tesla Model Y. The Tesla not only provides a better range for the cost, but it also benefits from the extensive Supercharger network, making it a practical choice for customers. Although BYD offers a longer six-year vehicle warranty compared to Tesla's four, the pricing strategy employed by BYD might hinder its competitive edge. Moreover, Tesla maintains a reputation for superior technology integration and user experience, becoming a benchmark in the industry. The Model Y has also undergone recent upgrades for comfort, driving appeal, and advanced tech capabilities. While the BYD Sealion 7 impressively features some excellent technology, it ultimately falls short of the user experience and efficient software integration that Tesla's offerings provide.