BYD Seal Premium and Performance price slashed: Popular China-made Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 rival axes drive-away costs on upper trims

BYD has announced a run-out special on 2023 year model Seal sedans.

Those ordering a Seal Premium ($58,798) or Performance ($68,748) with standard paint and interior combination for personal use will only pay the list price with drive-away charges included. 

This saving for the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 rival equates to between $535 (ACT) up to $3708 (Vic). Those in WA will pay a little more owing to government charges, at $60,798 for the Premium and $70,748 for the Performance. 

The savings apply to non-business purchases of Seal sedans – including if you already have an order in but haven't taken delivery – between June 7 and 30.

The single motor Seal Premium has a rear mounted 230kW/360Nm electric motor and 82.56kWh ‘Blade’ LFP battery pack for 570km driving range. 

It also gets 19-inch, LED headlights, a 15.6-inch multimedia screen, ‘genuine’ leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, keyless entry and push-button start. 

Moving up to the Performance doubles the motor count bringing outputs 390kW and 670Nm while range drops back to 520km. 

The latest offer hasn’t drastically changed the Seal’s place in the market, it was already well below the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Polestar 2 for price. It still undercuts Tesla’s Model 3 sedan ($64,500 before on-road costs for the 629km Long Range) despite that car's significant cuts. 

BYD’s end of financial year offer follows its deal on Atto 3 small SUV demonstrators announced earlier this year. 

Big name rivals including Tesla and Polestar have jumped on the discount program either slashing prices wholesale or offering retail deals. 

Smaller players, including Renault, Peugeot and Nissan have also slashed prices on selected models to move stock.