BYD adds Atto 2 DM-i, Atto 3 EVO
BYD has launched two new SUV models in Australia, the Atto 2 DM-i and the Atto 3 EVO, which are expected to play a significant role for the Chinese electrified vehicle brand. The Atto 2 DM-i is a plug-in hybrid version of the small SUV model launched in Australia last year, while the Atto 3 EVO is an updated version of the electric mid-size SUV.
The Atto 2 DM-i is priced from $24,990 before on-road costs for the entry-level Essential model, making it the cheapest plug-in hybrid on the Australian market. It is also the only plug-in hybrid currently offered in the sub-$45,000 small SUV segment, competing with ICE, BEV, and HEV-powered rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and the GWM Haval Jolion HEV.
Atto 2 DM-i Specifications
The Atto 2 DM-i has a combined system output of 122kW and 300Nm in the Essential guise, with a 0-100km/h time of 9.1 seconds. The 7.85kWh battery allows for an electric-only WLTP driving range of 39km and a total driving range of 845km. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 1.8 litres per 100km when the battery is above a state of charge of 25 per cent.
In the top-spec Premium version, power is increased to 156kW, with a larger 18.03kWh battery and an electric-only driving range of 90km. The Premium model also features a number of additional standard features, including 17-inch wheels, front parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof.
Standard safety features on the Atto 2 DM-i include automatic emergency braking, a 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control. The Atto 2 DM-i is backed by a six-year/150,000km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000km traction battery warranty.
Local executives expect the DM-i to make up around 60 per cent of total Atto 2 sales in Australia. The Atto 2 DM-i will compete with other small SUVs in the market, including the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV and the Chery Tiggo 4 Hybrid.
Atto 3 EVO Specifications
The Atto 3 EVO is priced from $41,990 + ORCs for the entry-level Dynamic variant, which features a front-mounted electric motor producing 150kW and 310Nm. The Premium model ups the power to 230kW and 380Nm, with a 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds.
The Atto 3 EVO has a WLTP driving range of 420km in the Dynamic variant and 510km in the Premium variant. Energy consumption is quoted at 16kWh/100km for the Dynamic and 16.4kWh/100km for the Premium. The Atto 3 EVO supports vehicle-to-load functionality and 7kW AC charging, with 110kW DC charging available on the Premium model.
Standard features on the Atto 3 EVO include 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and a panoramic sunroof. The Premium model adds front cross traffic alert and brake, four-way power lumbar for the driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control.
Test drive results show the Atto 3 EVO returned an energy consumption figure of 9.7kWh/100km for the “past 50 km,” while the Atto 2 DM-i returned 3.8L/100km and 2.9kWh/100km for the “past 50 km” over a 30km journey.
Service pricing for the Atto 2 DM-i and Atto 3 EVO varies, with the total cost for the first five years coming to $2230 for the Atto 2 DM-i and $1410 and $1670 for the Dynamic and Premium Atto 3 EVO models, respectively.
Neither model is offered with a spare wheel, instead receiving a tyre repair kit. The Atto 2 DM-i has 425 litres of boot space with the back seats up and 1335 litres with the second row folded.
Market Expectations
BYD expects the new SUV pair to shift some considerable volume locally, forecasting combined sales for the Atto 2 line-up and the Atto 3 EVO at 2000 units per month. The Atto 3 EVO will compete with other electric mid-size SUVs in the market, including the Skoda Elroq and the Geely EX5.
The Atto 3 EVO Premium has a 101 litre frunk and 490 litres of boot space, while the Dynamic variant has 434 litres of boot space with the rear seats up and 1340 litres with them folded. The rear boot’s lip is slightly high, which might make loading slightly more difficult.
Service intervals come every one year or 20,000km for the Atto 2 DM-i and every 12 months or 20,000km for the Atto 3 EVO.
Premium Trim Equipment, Warranty Coverage and Service Costs
The Atto 2 DM-i Premium adds synthetic-leather steering wheel and seats, heated front seats, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a six-way manually adjustable passenger seat. It also receives a larger 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, an eight-speaker audio system, wireless phone charging, interior ambient lighting and vehicle-to-load capability. Buyers may select premium paint for an additional $600.
