BYD Seal 06 GT vs Tesla Model Y: which car is better for a Ukrainian driver

The electric vehicle market in Ukraine is growing rapidly. Every year, the choice becomes wider, and now a potential buyer faces no less difficult a task than a few years ago: to choose between the technological stability of Tesla and the new but ambitious approach of BYD. In this article, we will find out how the BYD Seal 06 GT really differs from the Tesla Model Y, and which of these models is better suited for Ukrainian conditions.

We remind you that you can purchase home and commercial charging stations in our online storeand also use the public charging stations ECOFACTORcharging points located throughout Ukraine. For convenient access to charging infrastructure, we recommend using our mobile applicationwhich is available on iOS and Android.

Appearance: restraint or challenge?

Tesla does not seek to surprise with its design - it relies on a restrained aesthetic. The updated version of the Model Y has a Cybertruck-style LED panel, slightly different hood and rear spoiler contours, but overall, everything remains in the usual futuristic minimalism. The car looks modern, but does not attract too much attention.

The situation is different with the BYD Seal 06 GT. It has an aggressive front end, headlights with a hint of Ferrari SF90, curves in the bonnet and sidewalls that form an expressive sporty "waist". This design is emotional, even a little challenging. In the Ukrainian traffic, where most cars look rather restrained, BYD definitely stands out.

In a nutshell: Tesla is a restrained classic among electric vehicles. BYD is the choice for those who want to be seen at traffic lights.

Interior: hi-tech or usual comfort?

The interior of the Tesla Model Y is a logic of absolute simplification. There are almost no physical buttons, a central touchscreen display that is responsible for everything from the climate to opening the glove compartment. There is another screen for the rear passengers, but it also duplicates the main functions.

In BYD, the interior is more like what drivers of traditional cars are used to. There are physical buttons, a normal steering wheel with the usual functionality, a separate climate panel, a projection display and convenient placement of controls. The central screen is oriented vertically, but does not take over all functions, leaving the driver the opportunity to interact in the old-fashioned way.

In other words, Tesla is creating the space of the future - beautiful, but not always comfortable. BYD focuses on clarity and familiarity without sacrificing modernity.

Dynamics: numbers are not everything

On paper, the Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD produces 514 hp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. But the main thing is weight. Tesla is lighter, which is noticeable at every turn.

The BYD Seal 06 GT has several configurations:

• 224 hp (RWD, 7.5 seconds to 100 km/h)
• 422 hp (AWD, 4.9 sec)

Yes, it can be fast, but the handling is a little softer. The Tesla is sharper in the corners, leans less, and accelerates better on the move.

Power reserve and charging

Tesla has its own philosophy: maximum energy efficiency and convenience.

Tesla Model Y:

• Cruising range (Long Range AWD): 455 km (according to the EPA)
• Fast charging: 292 km in 15 min
• Access to Superchargers (but they are not yet available in Ukraine)
• Navigation navigates the route with charging points

BYD Seal 06 GT:

• Batteries: 59.5 or 72.9 kWh
• Cruising range: up to 605 km (according to CLTC), actually 400-450 km
• Consumption: approx. 4 km/kWh
• Charging: fast up to 120 kW (0.33-0.37 h)
• No branded charging network

In cities, the difference is not critical, but when travelling, Tesla has an advantage. This is relevant if you plan to travel from Kyiv to Odesa or on holiday to Zakarpattia.

Boot, space, convenience

This is important if you are not just "driving around" but actually using the car.

Tesla Model Y:

• Total capacity up to 2,138 litres
• Front (front boot)
• Electric boot with sensor
• The rear seats fold down with a button
• Lots of underground space

BYD Seal 06 GT:

• Smaller boot, no front end
• But there is more space for passengers
• Soft seats, especially in the second row

This means that Tesla has an advantage in terms of luggage space - up to 2,138 litres with the front boot (front). The rear seats fold down at the touch of a button, and the boot itself opens contactlessly. There is also plenty of space for small items under the floor.

The BYD has a more modest trunk, no front. But the passengers in the back will be more comfortable - more legroom, comfortable seats, and a soft fit. In winter, this can be crucial for someone in the family.

Infotainment, chips, details

Tesla:

• 15.4″ main display + 8″ rear display
• Tesla Arcade
• Dog Mode, Camp Mode, Sentry Mode
• Built-in music, video, cameras

BYD:

• Android Auto / Apple CarPlay
• Horizontal and vertical screens
• Conventional driver assistance systems
• Camera, parking assistants

If the usual smartphone connection is important, BYD is better. If you want the Tesla ecosystem, then Model Y.

Prices and availability in Ukraine

Tesla is not officially represented in Ukraine, so the cars are imported as grey imports. This means that service and warranty depend on the specific supplier. Prices range from $48,000 to $55,000.

The BYD Seal 06 GT is already officially available. Terra Cars in Chernivtsi, for example, offers full support, several configurations, and service. Prices range from $21 800 to $28 600.

The difference in cost is significant. And if the budget is limited to $30,000, the choice will be obvious.

Which model is for whom?

Who is suitable for Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a good option for those who regularly travel long distances, especially on intercity routes. The car is energy efficient, has a long real-world range, and a convenient route planning system with charging points. If it's important for you to get behind the wheel and just drive without opening third-party apps or manually looking for a charging station, Tesla gives you a sense of peace of mind.

It is also suitable for those who are used to, or want to get used to, a fully digital environment. Here, everything from climate settings to door control is done via the central screen or voice commands. It may be a little unusual at first, but if you're not opposed to such innovations or have already been familiar with Tesla cars, the adaptation will be easy. You should also consider the Model Y if you like the minimalist design without unnecessary elements, where every detail has its own clear function.

Who is more suitable for BYD Seal 06 GT

The BYD Seal 06 GT is a smart choice for those looking for an electric car within a more affordable budget, but who do not want to compromise on comfort and equipment. The car is focused on practicality, and this is felt in the details: comfortable seats, plenty of space for rear passengers, a projection display, normal physical buttons, and clear controls. All this makes the Seal 06 GT closer to what we are used to seeing in traditional cars.

It's also a good solution for those who don't want to lose access to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These systems work right out of the box, without any restrictions, so if you often listen to music, use maps or reply to messages via the smartphone interface, everything will be familiar.

The design is worth mentioning separately. If you're interested in something new, want to stand out on the road, but still deal with an officially represented brand in Ukraine, BYD can be an interesting alternative. It's not a radically different car, but it definitely doesn't look like most electric vehicles that have been on Ukrainian roads for a long time.

Have you chosen an electric car? We'll provide charging - ECOFACTOR

At ECOFACTOR, we work to ensure that electric vehicles - regardless of brand - can be charged comfortably throughout Ukraine. Whether you choose a Tesla Model Y or a BYD Seal 06 GT, it doesn't matter to us, as long as your trip doesn't stop due to the lack of charging infrastructure.

We design, manufacture and install charging stationsfor both private use and business. We have AC solutions up to 44 kW and DC stations up to 420 kW, which are suitable for charging both Tesla and BYD. If you are not sure which station is right for you, we will help you choose. Our process is simple: you leave a request, we contact you, advise you, and install it.

To make it more convenient, we have created the ECOFACTOR EV Charging mobile application - it is available on iOS and Android. It allows you to not only check the charging status, but also find the nearest station on map of charging stationsThe app works with any type of account, and is convenient for both drivers and businesses. The app works with any type of account and is convenient for both drivers and business users.

In our online store You will also find everything you need for everyday use of your electric car cables and adaptersholders, adapters, RFID cards and other accessories. This can be useful if you have just bought a car from abroad and don't yet have the right connector for Ukrainian stationsOr you just want to have a spare cable in the trunk.

We have also developed a platform for operators that allows them to flexibly manage their charging station network. It is used to manage more than 3,500 charging ports in 11 countries. But most importantly, it works in Ukraine as well. And it works stably.

Just as an electric car - be it a Tesla, BYD or something else - should drive confidently, so should the charging infrastructure be simple, clear and accessible. We at ECOFACTOR are doing our best for this.

Bottom line: what to choose?

Both cars are good, but different. Tesla Model Y is about technology, efficiency, stability and a bit of a new philosophy. It is comfortable on long journeys, economical and very thoughtful, although sometimes it is too digital.

BYD Seal 06 GT is comfort, logic and familiar experience in a new wrapper. It's cheaper, no worse in terms of dynamics and feel, and, most importantly, it's already officially available in Ukraine.

It all depends on your needs. If you drive around the city every day and want a clear car, BYD will work better. If you often travel long distances and want full autonomy and digital comfort, Model Y will not disappoint you.

Frequently asked questions