BYD Song L vs Tesla Model 3: a fair comparison for the Ukrainian market

The electric vehicle market in Ukraine is now moving faster than our intercity trains. While a few years ago, most drivers associated an "electric car" exclusively with Tesla, today the situation is radically different. Chinese brands, such as BYD, are actively entering the Ukrainian market and have already managed to compete with well-known models. We are now focusing on two strong players: BYD Song L and Tesla Model 3. Both cars have their own chips, but each also has weaknesses. Let's find out which is best for you.

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.

Dimensions and appearance

The BYD Song L is positioned as an electric sports car with coupe elements. It has a pronounced dynamic silhouette, an elongated rear end and an electric spoiler. The car looks quite massive and solid, although it has a non-aggressive appearance. Visually, it is closer to the liftback class than to a classic sedan.

Tesla Model 3 looks more restrained. It has more compact dimensions, rounded lines, nothing superfluous. This car does not attract attention with its design, but you recognise it immediately. Minimalism is part of the idea here.

For some people, a bright appearance is important, while others want to "not shine". BYD is more suitable for those who want something new and expressive. Tesla is for lovers of restrained aesthetics.

Power and battery life

This is one of the key characteristics that Ukrainians pay attention to. With our infrastructure, it is better to be safe than sorry on the road between Zhytomyr and Rivne.

The BYD Song L offers several options:

• 550 Base: range 550 km, battery 71.8 kWh
• 662 Base: range 662 km, battery 87 kWh
• 4WD: range of 602 km, the battery is not specified, but the power is impressive

Tesla Model 3 in the standard version has about 350 km of WLTP cycle. The Long Range version delivers up to 490 km. But there's a caveat here: BYD's figures are based on the NEDC cycle, which is less accurate and more "optimistic" than the WLTP cycle used by Tesla.

That is, the real range may be closer than it seems. But the fact remains that BYD's 662 Base version looks promising for long journeys.

Dynamics and power

Drivers in Ukraine are already used to the idea that electric cars are not only about the environment, but also about acceleration.

BYD Song L:

• 550 Base: 204 hp, 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds
• 662 Base: 313 hp, 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds
• 4WD: 517 hp, 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds

Tesla Model 3:

• Standard Range: 325 hp, 0-100 km/h in ~5.6 seconds
• Long Range: approx. 441 bhp, 0-100 km/h in ~4.6 seconds
• Performance: 627 bhp, 0 to 60 in less than 3.4 seconds

In terms of dynamics, Tesla is slightly ahead, especially in the Long Range and Performance versions. But BYD is not far behind, and for daily use, the 662 Base or 4WD version is quite enough.

Packages and convenience

This is where the difference between the two models is particularly acute. Tesla is going for radical minimalism: instead of buttons, there is a large display, instead of the usual controls, there is a touch menu. For example, to open the glove compartment, you need to press the corresponding icon on the screen. Mirror settings, climate control, even adjusting the direction of the air from the deflectors - all this is integrated into the software. For some, this is a modern and clean approach, but not everyone likes to search for basic functions in the menu while driving.

The BYD Song L is suitable for those who want more classic comfort, but in a modern design. The 662 Top and 4WD trims have everything you'd expect from a premium car:

• Steering wheel heating: handy in winter when you don't want to grab cold plastic
• Massage in the front seats:not only a nice feature, but also a real relief on a long journey
• Aromatisation of the cabinoptional, but it adds to the mood and makes the atmosphere in the cabin more pleasant
• Alcantara or leather upholsteryPleasant to the touch, looks expensive and gives the right impression
• Electric spoilerNot only a design element, but also a functional part that improves aerodynamics at speed

Add to this the heated second row of seats, the power driver's seat with memory, and you get a car that really cares about your comfort.

Another interesting feature is the rotating central display, which can be moved from horizontal to vertical. This is useful when you use navigation or want passengers to watch a film on the road. Tesla does not offer this - it has a single, fixed screen, albeit a large one.

As for the controls, BYD has kept some of the physical buttons, particularly on the steering wheel. This makes driving easier, especially on our roads, where it is important to react quickly and not be distracted by menus.

To sum up: Tesla is about modern experience, when you drive a car almost like a smartphone. BYD is about comfort and familiarity, but with a modern approach and useful little things that you notice as soon as you get in the car.

Drive and handling

The Tesla Model 3 is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, depending on the configuration. The base model has rear-wheel drive, which is suitable for urban environments and quiet driving. However, the Long Range and Performance models come with all-wheel drive, which adds confidence on wet roads or snow. This is especially noticeable in winter, when stability in cornering and braking plays a key role. The all-wheel drive system in Tesla works smoothly, without jerking, and performs well when the surface changes abruptly, for example, when switching from asphalt to cobblestones or snow.

The autopilot is worth mentioning separately. Tesla has been improving its driver assistance system for several years now, and today it is not just cruise control, but a comprehensive set of functions: automatic braking, lane keeping, parking, and calling the car to the driver. All this is updated "over the air", that is, via the Internet, without a visit to the service centre.

The BYD Song L also has an all-wheel drive version - a powerful 4WD with 517 hp, with acceleration to hundreds in 4.3 seconds. And this is a serious result. According to tests in China, the car holds its trajectory well, has precise steering and stable suspension performance even at high speeds. But the driving experience in the Song L is more like a classic premium sedan than a "gadget on wheels" like Tesla.

As for the auxiliary systems, BYD does not yet have such an advanced autopilot. There are driver assistants (braking, lane control, adaptive cruise), but they are less flexible and not updated as often. However, for many drivers, this will be enough. If you are not a fan of automating the entire process, this difference may not be critical.

Charging and support in Ukraine

Tesla is already well established in Ukraine, although it is not officially represented. Many people bring Model 3s from the US or Europe, so service and repairs are not a problem. There are private workshops specialising in Tesla and spare parts stores. The charging infrastructure is also on top: most stations support the appropriate connectors, and adapters have long been commonplace for owners. In large cities such as Kyiv, Lviv, and Kharkiv, charging a Tesla is a breeze. And with the advent of mobile apps and charging station maps, this process has become even more convenient.

As for BYD, the situation is slightly different. Although the brand is represented in Ukraine through importers, there is no full-fledged service network yet. However, you can already find dealers who deal specifically with BYD Song L and provide a warranty. This is important because having official support is always a plus, especially if you buy a car new. BYD uses standard Type 2 and CCS2 connectors, which are compatible with most Ukrainian stations. This means that you don't have to look for rare adapters or get tricky with adapters. Plus, BYD usually comes with mobile chargers that allow you to connect even to a regular household outlet.

However, it's important to remember that Tesla still has the advantage of a stronger community. There are chats, forums, and Telegram channels where you can quickly find an answer to any question. This is still being formed at BYD, but judging by the brand's growth rate, the situation is changing quite quickly.

Approximate prices in Ukraine

According to the website of the Ukrainian dealer:

• BYD Song L starts from $27,500 (550 Base), top versions - up to $34,900
• Tesla Model 3 used - from $28,000, new Long Range - closer to $40,000+

When it comes to "what I get for my money," BYD offers more features for a smaller budget. But Tesla keeps its price thanks to its image, community, and over-the-air updates.

Who is best suited for BYD Song L

This option is suitable for those who want the largest possible range and do not want to constantly look back at the distance to the nearest charging point. If the atmosphere inside the car is important to you, if you pay attention to the quality of the finish, comfortable seats, heating, and even such little things as interior aromatics, BYD Song L will offer all of this in the middle price range. It is well suited for those who want something new, fresh on the Ukrainian market, and are not afraid of the fact that the brand is not yet so promoted. And if the budget is limited to $35,000, then it's difficult to find something so well-equipped with such dynamics.

Who is best suited for Tesla Model 3

Tesla is worth considering for those who prioritise stability, a proven reputation and a well-developed infrastructure. If you want to have constant access to software updates, use a smart autopilot, and not worry about finding service in case of emergency, Tesla will give you this feeling of confidence. Also, the Model 3 is more suitable for those who consider resale value to be important, as it holds up quite well on the used car market. But be prepared for a minimalist approach in the cabin and a slightly higher price for the name and functionality.

Charging stations and app from ECOFACTOR for Tesla and BYD owners

At ECOFACTOR, we see the number of electric vehicles in Ukraine growing rapidly every day. The BYD Song L and Tesla Model 3 are just two examples of how fast the market is changing. And along with this, the need for a simple, reliable and convenient charging infrastructure is growing. This is exactly what we are working on.

We are engaged in a full cycle: design, manufacture and service charging stations. All devices are manufactured in Ukraine. Whether you're driving a BYD with a Type 2 connector or a Tesla with an adapter, it's important to have quick access to charging wherever you need it.

Charging infrastructure for everyone's needs

We already have more than 3,500 charging ports in our network that support modern standards. This means that you can charge both Tesla Model 3 and BYD Song L without any unnecessary manipulations. Moreover, we have provided flexibility: our models include both AC stations up to 44 kW and DC fast stations up to 420 kW. This allows you not to waste extra time on charging, especially when every minute on the road is important.

In addition to stations we also offer cables and adaptersthat can be useful in different situations. You can buy all this in our online store - accessories for home charging or on the go - from adapters to charging modules.

App and map of charging stations

For electric car owners, it's important to have control on their smartphone. That's why we created the ECOFACTOR mobile app, available on iOS and Androidthrough which you can:

• browse map of charging stations
• control the charging process
• check cost statistics
• choose a tariff and pay for it

Our system allows you to quickly find a station nearby, book a port and not waste time searching or waiting. This is especially convenient for Tesla owners, where every minute counts before the next meeting, or BYD owners who are used to comfort in everything.

Conclusions.

Choosing between BYD Song L and Tesla Model 3 is not just a matter of price or technical characteristics. It's about the approach to using an electric car in general. If you prefer comfort in every detail, premium features at an affordable price, and are ready to give a new brand from China a chance, the Song L will be a pleasant discovery. If you value a proven approach, regular updates, minimalist interior design, and strong community support, the Tesla Model 3 is still a very confident choice.

Each of these cars has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important not to look for the "best in everything" but to understand what suits you best. Ukraine's charging infrastructure already allows you to choose according to your preferences rather than restrictions.

Frequently asked questions