Note: This article was first published on 5 July 2024.
Electric car makers BYD and Tesla have both launched more affordable models that qualify for the slightly less expensive Category A COE in the past couple of weeks.
The newer of the two is the Seal Dynamic 100kW from BYD. As its name suggests, it has a power output of 100kW or 134hp. Performance suffers compared to the outgoing Dynamic model, but this new version will still get from 0-100km/h in 10 seconds. Crucially, it still has a 61.44kWh battery. The claimed range on the WLTP Combined cycle is 460km.
(Image source: BYD)
Inside, the new Seal Dynamic 100kW loses none of the features that make the Seal such a tantalising option in its class. You have a large 15.6-inch infotainment system, ventilated seats, an expansive panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
From Tesla, we have the Rear-Wheel Drive 110 variant of the Model 3. The number “110” refers to its power output, 110kW or 148hp – the maximum permissible to qualify for a Category A COE.
It may be the least powerful version of the Model 3, but it’ll still get from a standstill to 100km/h in a sprightly 8.6 seconds. The claimed WLTP range is 513km.
(Image source: Tesla)
The Rear-Wheel Drive 110 variant loses none of the features that make the Model 3 great, and that means it has a large 15.4-inch infotainment display, Tesla Arcade, Sentry Mode, and more.
Having a car that qualifies for a Category A COE is an important strategy for carmakers here in Singapore. Although the prices of Category A COEs remain high, car buyers (particularly first-time buyers) will appreciate every little bit of savings that they can get.
In the case of these two cars here, and based on current COE premiums, the savings (when compared to the Cat B model) can range anywhere from S$10,000 to as much as S$25,000.
To learn more about these cars, be sure to check out our earlier review of the BYD Seal Performance and our test drive of the new updated Model 3.
Availability and pricing
The BYD Seal Dynamic 100kW and Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive 110 are both available to order now.
Prices of the BYD Seal Dynamic 100kW start at S$170,888, while prices of the Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive 110 start at around S$189,000.
Prices are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change because of ever-changing COE premiums.
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