Comparison of BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3: Redefining Daily Electric Driving in Saudi Arabia

Saudi streets are quickly shifting toward electric vehicles, with more choices combining modern performance, smart technologies, and low running costs. In this new wave, the comparison between the BYD Seal and the Tesla Model 3 stands out, as both electric sedans compete for the attention of Saudi buyers looking for a car that suits daily commutes and long trips across the Kingdom.

Power on the Road… Acceleration That Fits a Modern Driving Lifestyle

Each car brings a different approach to performance, backed by strong numbers that serve both everyday use and a sportier feel.

BYD Seal

• Premium version with rear wheel drive and Performance version with all wheel drive

• Standard output of 230 kW (308 hp)

• 0–100 km/h acceleration in about 5.9 seconds

• Performance output of 390 kW (523 hp)

• 0–100 km/h acceleration in about 3.8 seconds

Tesla Model 3

• Long Range versions available with rear wheel drive and all wheel drive

• Long Range RWD output of 283 hp and 420 Nm of torque

• 0–100 km/h acceleration in about 5.2 seconds

• Performance output of 513 hp and 660 Nm of torque

• 0–100 km/h acceleration in about 3.3 seconds

Longer Range… More Confidence for Long Trips

Range is a key factor for EV users in Saudi Arabia, especially with long distances between major cities.

BYD Seal

• Official WLTP range of up to 570 km

• Range can drop in real use with heavy air conditioning and frequent high performance driving

Tesla Model 3

• Official range of up to 660 km (AWD)

• Official WLTP range of up to 750 km for the rear wheel drive version with smaller wheels

• Real world driving range of around 640 km with a 79 kWh battery (Long Range RWD)

• Range and efficiency can be impacted by high temperatures and strong A/C demand

Smart Tech That Protects and Makes Every Drive Easier

Both cars offer advanced safety and driver assistance features, but they deliver them in different ways.

BYD Seal

• Adaptive cruise control (ACC)

• 360 degree surround view cameras

• Automatic emergency braking

• Blind spot monitoring

• 5 star safety rating

• Advanced digital screens and a modern instrument display

Tesla Model 3

• Standard Autopilot suite

• Traffic Aware Cruise Control

• Lane departure warning

• Eight surround cameras

• Hardware ready capability for Full Self Driving (pending approvals and activation)

• Ongoing over the air (OTA) software updates

A Cabin That Blends Modern Taste with Everyday Comfort

Each car offers a different interior experience that suits a wide range of preferences.

BYD Seal

• 15.6 inch rotating central touchscreen (switches between landscape and portrait)

• Separate digital instrument display for speed and key driving info

• Full panoramic roof for a more open feel

• Solid interior fit and finish, with quality often compared to Japanese and Korean standards

• Noticeably spacious and airy cabin ambience

Tesla Model 3

• Single 15.4 inch central touchscreen controlling most vehicle functions

• Minimalist, tech forward interior layout

• Comfortable seats with soft synthetic upholstery

• Panoramic glass roof that boosts headroom and cabin light

• Rear cargo space up to 594 liters with five passengers

Built for GCC Summer Heat

Both cars are engineered to handle hot climates efficiently, with systems designed to support comfort and protect the battery.

BYD Seal

• High efficiency heat pump system for cooling and heating

• Integrated battery cooling system to help maintain performance in hot weather

• Consistent operation in high ambient temperatures

Tesla Model 3

• Heat pump to improve HVAC efficiency in hot and cold conditions

• Cabin pre conditioning recommended before driving in high heat

• Cabin Overheat Protection mode to reduce interior heat buildup when parked

• Practical guidance includes shading the car and using a sunshade

Daily Charging and Infrastructure Across Saudi Arabia

Charging convenience depends on the available networks and the level of local support.

BYD Seal

• CCS2 connector

• DC fast charging up to 150 kW (Premium and Performance)

• AC home charging supported

• Home charger installation available through Al Futtaim (Charge2Moov)

• Public chargers can be located via apps such as PlugShare

Tesla Model 3

• Tesla Supercharger fast charging up to around 250 kW

• Fast charging infrastructure in Saudi Arabia was still early stage as of 2025, with limited site coverage

• AC home charging supported via the wall charger/adapter.

• Network rollout expected to expand as sales grow

Pricing and After Sales Support in Saudi Arabia

Pricing and warranty coverage show a clear difference in brand positioning.

BYD Seal

• Starts at around SAR 149,900

• Battery warranty: 8 years or 200,000 km

• Vehicle warranty: 6 years or 150,000 km

• Roadside assistance: 6 years

• Complimentary home charger

Tesla Model 3

• Starts at SAR 154,990 and goes up to around SAR 229,990

• Vehicle warranty: 4 years or 80,000 km

• Battery and drive unit warranty: 8 years

• Routine maintenance typically lower

• Service presence currently led by a Riyadh facility, with additional locations expected