After the all-electric e6 MPV launch for the fleet segment in 2021, BYD is now planning to enter the passenger segment in India. The Chinese carmaker will foray into the segment with its recently launched Atto 3. According to sources, it is likely that BYD will launch the SUV at the 2023 Auto Expo in January.
When it arrives in the Indian market, the BYD Atto 3 will directly compete with the MG ZS EV. In the international markets, the Atto 3 is available with a choice of two battery packs – a 49.92 kWh battery pack and a 60.48 kWh battery pack. The smaller of the two offers a range of 320 km. At the same time, the larger 60.48 kWh battery pack provides a range of 420 km. Both the range figures are as per the WLTP cycle.
The battery pack will also use BYD’s patented Blade Battery Technology. This battery pack technology is claimed to be far safer and more forgiving than other battery pack technologies. The Atto 3 will also support up to 80 kW DC Fast Charging. Using the DC Fast Charger, the Atto 3 can top up its battery in under an hour. Other option includes a 3-pin AC charger and also a Type-2 AC charger.
Powering the Atto 3 is a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM), producing 204 HP and 310 Nm of torque. These figures are also better than the MG ZS EV. BYD claims it will do a 0 to 100kmph sprint in 7.3 seconds. Meanwhile, it will tip the scales between 1,680 kg to 1,750 kg.
BYD generously equips the Atto 3 internationally. The SUV comes with LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, a digital instrument cluster and powered seats. The touchscreen infotainment display measures 12.8-inches and can also rotate. The interior will also get ambient lighting as standard. The tailgate will also be electrically-operated.
The Atto 3 will get a complete suite of safety features, including ADAS. The model will come with seven airbags, ABS, ESP, 360-degree camera, TPMS and hill descent control. Additionally, there will also be plenty of ADAS features. These include fully adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert and more.
Sources within the company say the India-spec Atto 3 will likely get all the ADAS features available internationally. However, this will also increase the cost of the vehicle.
The Atto 3 will initially come to the Indian market via the CBU route. Hence, we can expect premium pricing for the electric SUV. According to sources, the range will start around INR 30 lakh. This is marginally higher than the other mass-market EVs on sale.
The BYD Atto 3’s main rival will be the MG ZS EV. The Atto 3 measures 4,455 mm in length and 1,875 mm in width. Meanwhile, the wheelbase is 2,720 mm. Hence, the Atto 3 will be larger than the ZS EV. Additionally, it will also be more powerful. However, it will come at a cost. BYD is hopeful the Atto 3 will entice the buyers who are willing to spend more for a larger and more equipped car.
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