Chinese automaker BYD has officially introduced its latest entry-level electric SUV, the BYD Song L, posing a direct challenge to Tesla's Model Y in the Chinese electric vehicle market.
While this sleek EV looks promising in pictures, can it really rival one of Elon Musk's flagship vehicles?
Pre-Order Frenzy For BYD Song L
After its initial showcase at the Shanghai auto show in April, BYD opened pre-orders on October 13. According to Electrek, the company witnessed a response of over 11,000 hand-raisers in just 17 days.
BYD Song L EV - on the road in China
— Tycho de Feijter (@TychodeFeijter) November 22, 2023
The BYD Song L is a new electric mid-sized SUV. It is based on BYD's e-platform 3.0, combined with Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology and Blade LFP battery packs. The Sing L is part of BYD's Dynasty Series, it is closely related to the Denza N7.… pic.twitter.com/wZXVNfb5ux
Fast forward to the present, and the number has skyrocketed to an impressive 28,350 pre-orders, indicating a strong market anticipation for the new electric SUV.
BYD Offers Special Gift to Buyers
With an enticing starting price of approximately $26,700 (189,800 yuan), the Song L positions itself as an attractive alternative to Tesla's Model Y. BYD has officially commenced sales with prices ranging from 189,800 to 249,800 yuan ($26,700 to $35,100).
Early buyers are being enticed with "financial gifts," including 0% interest for 24 months or a minimal down payment as low as 15%. Additional perks encompass deals on charging, online navigation, and complimentary car data.
When it comes to its design, the Song L distinguishes itself with BYD's signature "hunting dragon face" and a sleek "hunting design," making it one of BYD's most stylish SUVs to date.
With a low-lying profile, the sporty design is enhanced by five color options: orange, light blue, white, black, and gray. The interior boasts a 15.6" floating infotainment screen, a 10.25" instrument display, "BYD Heart," integrated sports seats, and a 50" head-up display.
Worthy Challenger to Tesla's Model Y
Measuring 4,840 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width, and 1,560 mm in height, the Song L enters the arena as a formidable competitor to Tesla's Model Y (L - 4,760 mm, W - 1,921 mm, H - 1,624 mm), per CNEVPost.
The BYD offering features three powertrain options - 150 kW, 230 kW, and an AWD version with 380 kW peak power, all powered by BYD's advanced Blade Battery, available in 71.8 kWh and 87.04 kWh configurations.
BYD's Ascent in the Global EV Arena
As BYD closes in on Tesla in global EV sales, the Song L strategically targets the mid-size electric SUV segment.
The company delivered 431,603 EVs through September, closely trailing Tesla's 435,059 vehicle deliveries. With the Song L and upcoming models like the Sea Lion 07 and the leaked BYD UP, BYD aims to disrupt the market and intensify the EV sales competition.
Thrilling Year-End For EV Sales Race
With BYD and Tesla at the forefront, there's no doubt that more automakers want to catch up with the two EV giants. While Tesla's Model Y is poised to become the top-selling passenger vehicle in 2023, BYD's Song L introduces a compelling contender. It is expected to be one of the most popular cars in China in 2024.
