Buying your first car is a major milestone and for many UK drivers, affordability, efficiency and reliability are key factors in their decision-making. The rise of electric vehicles has introduced a new dimension to the first-time buyer's market, with companies like BYD (Build Your Dreams) entering the UK automotive scene. But is a BYD car the right choice for a first-time buyer?
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of choosing BYD as your first vehicle, taking into account factors such as cost, reliability, performance, insurance, charging infrastructure and long-term value.
Who is BYD and What Do They Offer?
BYD is a Chinese automaker with a strong focus on electric vehicles. Originally a battery manufacturer, the company has expanded into the global EV market and is now one of the largest electric car producers worldwide. In the UK, BYD has introduced models such as:
BYD Dolphin - a compact and affordable EV designed for city driving.
BYD ATTO 3 - a mid-sized electric SUV with a modern design.
BYD SEAL - a stylish and powerful electric saloon that competes with premium EVs.
BYD SEAL U DM-I - the first electric-hybrid SUV.
BYD SEALION 7 - BYD’s brand-new, stylish SUV.
These models are positioned as budget-friendly EV options compared to more expensive brands like Tesla, making them appealing to new drivers who want to enter the world of electric motoring without breaking the bank.
Affordability: How Does BYD Compare?
For first-time buyers, cost is a primary concern. BYD’s models are relatively affordable within the EV market, with prices of used vehicles starting at around £26,195 depending on the model. While this is still higher than many second-hand petrol vehicles, government incentives such as reduced road tax and lower running costs can make EVs financially viable.
Running Costs
- Charging costs: charging a BYD at home overnight (using an off-peak electricity tariff) is significantly cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel car.
- Maintenance: EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, reducing maintenance costs over time.
- Tax benefits: electric vehicles currently benefit from zero road tax (until April 2025) and lower congestion charges in certain cities.
While the upfront cost of an EV is often higher than a petrol equivalent, the savings on fuel and maintenance can make BYD a smart financial decision in the long run.
Performance & Driving Experience
For many first-time buyers, ease of driving the busy streets is crucial. BYD vehicles come with modern tech features and smooth, quiet electric motors that provide a comfortable driving experience.
Key Benefits:
- Instant acceleration: unlike petrol cars, EVs deliver instant torque, making city driving more responsive.
- Regenerative braking: this feature helps to recharge the battery when slowing down, improving efficiency.
- Smooth ride: without a traditional gearbox, EVs like BYD models offer seamless acceleration and braking.
- Advanced tech features: most BYD cars come with large touchscreens, smartphone connectivity and driver assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist), making them beginner-friendly.
However, some drivers might miss the traditional "feel" of a petrol or diesel car, particularly if they enjoy manual transmissions or have gotten used to driving a manual.
Insurance Costs for First-Time Buyers
Insurance is often more expensive for first-time drivers, especially for newer models. While BYD is still relatively new in the UK, insurance groups for its models are expected to be in line with other EVs, meaning they could be slightly more expensive to insure than a small petrol car but comparable to similar EVs like the MG4 or Volkswagen ID.3.
Tips to Lower Insurance Costs:
- Use a black box policy: telematics insurance can help reduce premiums for new drivers.
- Add an experienced driver: listing a parent or older driver as a named driver can lower costs.
- Shop around: compare insurance providers to get the best deal.
Charging Infrastructure in the UK
One of the biggest concerns for EV buyers is charging accessibility. In the UK, the charging network is rapidly expanding, with over 50,000 public charging points available. If you have a driveway, installing a home charger is the most convenient option. For those who rely on public charging, BYD vehicles support fast-charging, which means topping up the battery can take as little as 30-40 minutes on a rapid charger.
However, first-time buyers living in flats or rented accommodation might find public charging less convenient, so it’s important to research local charging points before committing to an EV.
Reliability and Build Quality
BYD has gained a reputation for producing reliable batteries and their "Blade Battery" technology is considered one of the safest in the industry. Early reviews of BYD cars in the UK suggest that the build quality is solid, though long-term reliability is yet to be fully tested in the UK market.
Compared to legacy brands like Toyota or Volkswagen, BYD is still building its reputation. However, given its experience in battery production, it is likely to be a dependable option.
Resale Value & Long-Term Investment
One concern for first-time buyers is the resale value of their car. While EVs generally depreciate faster than petrol cars, BYD's growing presence and technological advancements may help maintain strong resale values.
Factors Affecting Resale Value:
- Battery health: BYD’s Blade Battery is designed for long life, which could improve resale value.
- Market demand: as EV adoption increases, well-priced second-hand electric cars are likely to retain value.
- Brand recognition: as BYD becomes more established, resale values may improve over time.
Final Verdict: Is BYD a Smart Choice for First-Time Buyers?
Pros:
- Affordable compared to many other EVs.
- Low running and maintenance costs.
- Good range and modern tech features.
- Environmentally friendly with zero emissions.
- Smooth and easy driving experience.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than used petrol alternatives.
- Insurance might be more expensive for young drivers.
- Public charging can be a challenge for those without home access.
- Resale value is uncertain due to BYD’s recent entry into the UK market.
Buy BYD for your first car with Swansway
For first-time buyers in the UK, BYD presents an attractive option, particularly for those looking to transition to electric vehicles. Its affordability, modern technology and low running costs make it a practical choice. However, considerations like insurance costs, charging availability and resale value should be carefully weighed.
If you have access to home charging and are looking for a future-proof, environmentally friendly vehicle, BYD could be an excellent first car. But if you are concerned about insurance premiums or rely heavily on public charging, a petrol or hybrid alternative might still be worth considering. At Swansway, we have a range of new and used BYD vehicles ready to view and test drive today. If you’re unsure what you're looking for or would like more information about one of the vehicles you see on our website, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our team and we’d be happy to help you.