Tesla Killer – BYD Launches Tesla Model 3 Rival With All Features at Half the Price [Video]

BYD has introduced its new Qin L EV, a purely electric sedan sized similarly to Tesla’s Model 3 yet priced more competitively to appeal to younger drivers. Unveiled at a launch event, the Qin L EV is built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 Evo and comes with complimentary driver-assistance features as standard.

According to BYD, the Qin L EV measures 4,720 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,495 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm. By comparison, the Tesla Model 3 offered in China is 4,720 mm long, 1,848 mm wide, and 1,442 mm tall, with a 2,875-mm wheelbase. The Qin L EV also boasts a 5.4-meter turning radius and is available in four exterior colors: gray, white, green, and beige.

Three Variants and Competitive Pricing

BYD has released three variants of the Qin L EV at starting prices of RMB 119,800 (about $16,530), RMB 129,800, and RMB 139,800. In contrast, the Model 3 in China is offered in three configurations: rear-wheel drive at RMB 235,500, long-range all-wheel drive at RMB 275,500, and performance all-wheel drive at RMB 339,500.

Battery Options, Power, and Range

The entry-level Qin L EV features a 46.08-kWh battery pack with a CLTC range of 470 km. The other two trims both use a 56.64-kWh pack that provides a 545-km CLTC range. All versions are single-motor, rear-wheel drive.

The base model’s motor delivers a peak power of 110 kW and torque of 220 Nm, while the upper two variants have a 160-kW motor generating 330 Nm of torque.

Depending on the version, the car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in either 4.1 seconds or 3.1 seconds. BYD has not disclosed the 0–100 km/h figures. Fast charging from 30 percent to 80 percent capacity takes just 24 minutes. The manufacturer reports energy consumption of 10.8 kWh per 100 km in 25-degree-Celsius conditions.

Smart Driving System: God’s Eye C

All Qin L EV variants come with BYD’s “God’s Eye C” (DiPilot 100) smart driving system at no extra cost. This setup includes 12 cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars, enabling features such as NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) on highways, automatic parking, and remote parking.

It also offers high-speed autopilot, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. More functions, including memory navigation, are expected to arrive through over-the-air (OTA) updates. A built-in sentry mode is included for additional security.

Comfort and Convenience

Inside, BYD’s DiLink 100 smart cockpit comes with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, while the higher-end trim adds a 12-inch head-up display and a 15.6-inch central screen. Powered by DeepSeek’s AI, the system supports voice commands.

Standard equipment includes paddle shifters for regenerative braking, wireless phone charging, smartphone-based remote controls, and keyless entry. The driver’s seat has eight-way power adjustment, and the front passenger seat has four-way power adjustment. The trunk offers 460 liters of cargo space plus an additional 65 liters in a front trunk. As an extra touch, BYD fits the Qin L EV with a refrigerator that cools down to –6°C or heats up to 50°C.

Competition and Market Context

BYD’s latest release specifically targets younger car buyers who want a Model 3–sized EV without paying a premium price. Starting at approximately €14,900, the Qin L EV aims to offer affordability and advanced technology in a single package.