Tesla Model S vs BYD Han EV
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Tesla Model S | BYD Han EV | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 670 | 494 | +35.6% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 949 | 680 | +39.6% |
| Energy use (kWh/100km) | 17.5 | 16.5 | +6.1% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (C-NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 1-Speed Automatic | Single-speed | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $76,500 | $39,130 | +95.5% |
- Tesla Model S makes about 36% more power (670 vs 494 hp).
- BYD Han EV is the more efficient EV, using 16.5 kWh/100km against 17.5.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (US and China); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: Model S or Han EV?
Tesla Model S advantages
- Engine power (+26%)
- Pulling torque (+28%)
BYD Han EV advantages
- Energy efficiency (+6%)
- Affordability (+49%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the BYD Han EV if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
- Choose the Tesla Model S if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
BYD Han EV delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Tesla Model S vs BYD Han EV: which should you choose?
Tesla Model S (2026 Dual Motor AWD) — electric sedan with 670 hp and 949 Nm, rated at 17.5 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $76,500 in the US market.
BYD Han EV (2020 High Performance AWD) — electric sedan with 494 hp and 680 Nm, rated at 16.5 kWh/100km, 5-star C-NCAP safety; priced near $39,130 in the China market.
Tesla Model S vs BYD Han EV: Tesla Model S is more powerful. Tesla Model S makes about 36% more power (670 vs 494 hp). BYD Han EV is the more efficient EV, using 16.5 kWh/100km against 17.5.
Performance
The Tesla Model S is the more powerful, at 670 hp against 494 hp, with 949 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a 1-speed automatic transmission.
Running costs
The BYD Han EV is the more efficient EV, drawing 16.5 kWh/100km against 17.5 — lower charging costs and, on the same battery, more range.
Safety
Tesla Model S is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and BYD Han EV 5 stars by C-NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The BYD Han EV lists lower at about $39,130 (USD-converted from the China market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tesla Model S better than the BYD Han EV?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. Tesla Model S makes about 36% more power (670 vs 494 hp).
What is the main difference between the Tesla Model S and the BYD Han EV?
Tesla Model S makes about 36% more power (670 vs 494 hp). BYD Han EV is the more efficient EV, using 16.5 kWh/100km against 17.5.
Which is better value?
BYD Han EV delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Tesla Model S if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the BYD Han EV if you want the lowest charging costs per km.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.