BYD Atto 2: A New Contender in the Electric Vehicle Market

BYD is set to introduce another model to its growing EV line up - a small electric crossover. Details of what is expected to be the BYD 'Atto 2', known as the Yuan Up in China, were revealed in China market homologation paperwork submitted recently. BYD has confirmed a planned 2025 launch in markets outside of China. Similar to its siblings, the Atto 3, Dolphin and Seal, the Atto 2 is based on BYD's advanced third-generation electric car platform, the e-Platform 3.0.

▶MORE: What BYD electric cars are coming to Australia?

BYD Atto 2: Bridging the Gap in Electric Cars in Australia

Designed to fill the space between the Dolphin hatchback and the Atto 3 crossover, the Atto 2 is expected to be another hit for BYD in Australia. While BYD has not confirm a specific launch date, it is expected to be made available in in both left and right-hand-drive markets. Pricing has not been confirmed but expect it be around $43,000 before on-road costs in Australia, which will place it between the starting prices of the Dolphin ($38,990) and Atto 3 ($48,011).

This pricing positions the Atto 2 as a competitive option among the best electric cars in Australia. For those weighing options between BYD models, a thorough BYD Atto 3 vs Dolphin comparison provides valuable insights for an informed decision.

Competing with Giants: BYD Atto 2's Market Rivals

The Atto 2 will sit in the small crossover segment. In terms of size it would be comparable to a Toyota Corrolla Cross, VW T-Roc a Mazda MX-30.

Electric cars in the small crossover segment include the Hyundai Kona EV, Renault Megane E-Tech and Volvo EX30.

While BYD has yet to officially confirm specifications, details published by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reveal the Atto 2 is a compact five-seater, measuring slightly smaller than the Atto 3, at 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm tall. It will feature a front-mounted electric motor, available in either 70kW or 130kW, similar to the BYD Dolphin hatchback.

Energy will be stored in BYD's proprietary lithium-iron-phosphate Blade battery in two sizes - 32.0kWh or 45.1kWh. This will provide 300km and 400km respectively on China’s CLTC test cycle.

The vehicle's weight will be between 1430kg and 1540kg, based on the motor and battery specifications. Final details are eagerly awaited as BYD finalises testing, with a full reveal expected soon.

Understanding the range of electric cars is crucial for potential buyers, especially when considering the BYD Atto 2 and its competitors.