BYD launches the Qin Max EV for half the price of a Tesla Model 3

BYD’s new Qin Max is now on sale, another Tesla Model 3-sized electric sedan that’s about half the price.

BYD Qin Max EV prices and specs

After launching the new Seal 06 this week, BYD introduced another electric sedan in China. The new “Max” model joins BYD’s popular Qin lineup, slotted above the Qin L.

The Qin Max is available in pure electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (DM-i) variants. The plug-in DM-i version starts at just 99,900 yuan, or about $15,000, while the Qin Max EV starts at 109,900 yuan ($16,500).

BYD said the Qin Max is the “top choice for young people in the B-segment sedan category,” offering its latest batteries, software, and tech at an affordable price.

The sedan measures 4,866 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,495 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, or slightly longer than the Tesla Model 3.

Like most of its new vehicles, the Qin Max EV is equipped with BYD’s new Blade Battery 2.0 and Flash Charging system that enables it to charge from 10% to 70% in just five minutes. To go from 10% to 97%, or what most consider a full recharge, it takes just nine minutes.

The EV version uses a single motor with two power outputs available: 160 hp (120 kW) or 321 hp (240 kW).

The Qin MAX EV is available with a CLTC driving range of up to either 330 miles (530 km) or 391 miles (630 km), depending on the configuration.

The plug-in DM-i version pairs a 1.5-liter engine with a 234 hp (175 kW) motor, providing a pure electric CLTC range of 199 miles (320 km) and a combined CLTC range of 1,472 miles (2,370 km).

Like the Seal 06, the Qin Max features BYD’s new interior design with a large 15.6″ center infotainment screen and 8.8″ driver display.

It also includes BYD’s God’s Eye B ADAS system, which, up until now, has been mostly reserved for higher-priced vehicles.

The setup includes a roof-mounted LiDAR that supports assisted driving features like Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) in the city and on highways.

Starting at just 109,900 yuan ($16,500), the Qin Max EV costs half as much as a Tesla Model 3 in China. The cheapest Model 3 RWD starts at 235,500 yuan ($35,000) and offers a CLTC driving range of up to 634 km (394 miles).

It’s also strangely the same price as the similarly sized Seal 06 sedan that BYD launched earlier this week. While one is sold under the Ocean Series and the other under its Dynasty lineup, the Qin Max and Seal 06 are essentially the same electric sedan.

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