How does it compare?
BYD Yuan UP sets a formidable challenge with its 177 horsepower, 401 km range, and a very appealing 60 kWh battery, all wrapped up in an SUV package at a starting price of $14,000. Now, how does it compare against Hyundai Kona Electric, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and Kia Soul EV?
Range
BYD Yuan UP boasts an impressive 401 km (249 miles) range, putting itself right in the middle of the pack. The Hyundai Kona Electric manages a whooping 415 km (258 miles), slightly edging out the Yuan UP in long-distance capabilities. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV offers a solid 402 km (250 miles), nearly mirroring the BYD’s ambition. The quirky Kia Soul EV chimes in with a faithful 386 km (240 miles), trailing its competitors by a whisker.
Acceleration
When it comes to acceleration, the BYD Yuan UP doesn’t shy away, thanks to its 177 hp. The Hyundai Kona Electric sports a marginally stronger 201 hp, translating into a zippier 0-60 mph sprint under 7.6 seconds. Not far behind, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV jumps from 0-60 mph in 7.0 seconds powered by its hefty 200 hp motor. The Kia Soul EV runs with 201 hp under the bonnet but lags behind a tad in acceleration, clocking around 7.6 seconds to hit 60 mph.
Power
Power defines the muscle, and here the BYD Yuan UP flexes at 177 hp. The Hyundai Kona Electric roars ahead with 201 hp, followed closely by the Chevrolet Bolt EUV also flaunting 200 hp. The plucky Kia Soul EV joins this power play with its 201 hp, leaving the Yuan UP somewhat trailing in horsepower pomp.
Charging Time
Now, those long drives demand a short pit stop. The BYD Yuan UP features a 60 kWh battery providing decent enough charging times; however, the specifics of its charging times aren’t industry-shattering. In contrast, the Hyundai Kona Electric and Chevrolet Bolt EUV share a quicker 10-11 hour full charge on a standard home charger (7.2 kW), but both can juice up to 80 percent in about 54 and 60 minutes respectively with fast charging. The Kia Soul EV aligns closely, with an 11-hour home charge and a fast charge up to 80 percent under an hour.
Price
This is where the BYD Yuan UP truly shines. With an astonishingly competitive entry price of $14,000 (£11,600, €13,400), it blows peers out of the water. The Hyundai Kona Electric asks a steeper $37,390 (£30,900, €35,800), the Chevrolet Bolt EUV wants around $33,500 (£26,750, €32,100), and the Kia Soul EV calls for approximately $33,950 (£27,140, €32,700). The BYD undeniably offers remarkable value, being nearly 2.5 times cheaper than its rivals.

