As Tesla continues to dominate headlines in the electric vehicle (EV) space, a growing number of global brands, especially from China, are emerging as strong alternatives to the EV major. A recent study by Slot.Day ranks the top EV alternatives to Elon Musk-led Tesla, analysing them on parameters like global sales, search popularity, pricing, safety, and driving range. Chinese giant BYD tops the list, followed by names like SAIC Maxus, Changan, and Wuling.

BYD ranks first among the best EV alternatives to Tesla, thanks to strong sales, search demand, and competitive pricing across its vehicle lineup, according to the study. The Chinese EV brand recorded over 2.6 million EV sales worldwide and more than 619,000 monthly searches, reflecting both market reach and consumer curiosity. With a price spectrum from $13,900 to $65,830 and an average electric range of 445 km, BYD’s position is supported by safety test performance and the popularity of its BYD Song model.

The study shows that seven out of 10 brands, which are alternatives to Tesla, are Chinese EV companies. The data was sourced from open reports, including ANCAP and Statista, and the final score was calculated based on key metrics, says the study.

After BYD, SAIC Maxus ranks second with a score of 84.6, led by an industry-low entry price of $4,460 and a top-tier ANCAP rating. The Maxus Euniq 6 contributes to its profile, backed by 175,985 EV sales and a 365 km average range. The brand also delivers protection scores with 92% for adult occupants and 87% for children, highlighting its focus on affordable safety.

Another Chinese brand, Changan, ranks third with a score of 84.4, propelled by a high 95% adult occupant protection rating and a competitive 450 km electric range. Though not ANCAP-tested, Changan maintains credibility through performance in protection metrics and balanced pricing from $16,400 to $41,300. Its flagship Deepal SL03 has gained attention for delivering long range in the mid-price segment.

The Chinese EV manufacturer Wuling ranks fourth, with a score of 81.3, reflecting unit sales of 371,386 and pricing starting at just $6,400. Despite a shorter 300 km range, the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV remains a dominant force in urban markets. Although safety data is partially reported, the brand holds a 5-star average rating on available tests.

Aion takes fifth place with a score of 80.5, anchored by the longest average electric range at 520 km. The GAC Aion S is its most prominent model.

Another Chinese company, Geely, places sixth with a score of 80.3, showing strength in sales volume (303,936 units) and pricing from $10,000 to $80,000. Its 410 km range keeps it competitive in terms of travel distance per charge. Chinese startup Leapmotor comes in seventh, with a score of 80, with 5-star safety scores and adult and child protection levels at 89% and 85%, respectively. Its 300-km range is modest but adequate for daily urban use.

European auto giant Volkswagen Group is ranked eighth, with a score of 79.9, leading in monthly searches at over 1.6 million. Its price is relatively high -- ranging from $21,000 to $71,100 -- and a sales figure of 318,255 EVs tempers its overall ranking, the study says. The company's ID.4 model performs well in safety and range (445 km), maintaining the brand’s reputation for consistency.

Chinese electric vehicle company Nio ranks ninth, with a score of 78.8, with standout safety scores, including 93.2% for adult protection and 85.5% for child protection.

South Korean auto major Hyundai rounds out the top 10, with a score of 76.9, balancing high brand visibility (867,510 searches per month) with strong safety scores -- 92.5% for adults and 86.5% for children. Though it sold fewer EVs (183,791 units) compared to some rivals, its Ioniq 6 model and a solid 400 km range maintain its position among the top alternatives to Tesla.