Key Points
- BYD's updated Atto 3 gets flash charging that can charge from 10% to 80% in just 5 minutes
- Two battery options offer up to 630 km CLTC (approx. 504 km WLTP) range
- The new model is bigger, more powerful, and built on a new rear-wheel-drive platform
BYD has listed an updated version of the Yuan Plus in China's New Energy Vehicle Purchase Tax Exemption Directory. Known as the Atto 3 in international markets, the new model brings a bigger body, more power, and flash charging technology. The news was first reported by Car News China.
The update was first spotted in MIIT filings last month before being officially listed.
Battery and Range
The new Atto 3 will be available with two battery options: a 57.5 kWh pack and a 68.5 kWh pack. These deliver CLTC ranges of 540 km (approx. 432 km WLTP) and 630 km (approx. 504 km WLTP) respectively.
Both variants use BYD's second-generation Blade Battery technology, which enables the flash charging capability.
Flash Charging
The second-generation Blade Battery supports flash charging. BYD says the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 5 minutes, and from 10% to 97% in 9 minutes.
Even in cold weather at -30 degrees Celsius, charging time increases by only 3 minutes compared to normal conditions.
Powertrain
The new Atto 3 uses a rear-mounted single motor. Two power outputs are available: 200 kW (268 hp) and 240 kW (322 hp). This is a shift from the current front-wheel-drive setup to a new rear-wheel-drive platform.
Bigger Body and New Design
The new model is noticeably larger than the current Atto 3. It measures 4,665 mm long, 1,895 mm wide, and 1,675 mm tall, with a 2,770 mm wheelbase. The current model measures 4,455 x 1,875 x 1,615 mm with a 2,720 mm wheelbase.
BYD Atto 3: Current vs New Model Dimensions
Specification | Current Atto 3 | New Atto 3 (Yuan Plus) |
Length | 4,455 mm | 4,665 mm |
Width | 1,875 mm | 1,895 mm |
Height | 1,615 mm | 1,675 mm |
Wheelbase | 2,720 mm | 2,770 mm |
Wheels | 18-inch | 18 or 19-inch |
The front features a silver grille panel with slim blackened headlights. The bumper has vertical ventilation openings on both sides and a trapezoidal cooling grille in the centre. The rear has a two-segment high-level brake light, integrated taillights in a through-type panel, and a rear window wiper. Semi-hidden door handles and customisable D-pillar panels are also included.
Sales Context in China
The Atto 3 is sold in many international markets. In China, it faces strong competition. Monthly sales have not topped 10,000 units since October last year. In January and February this year, sales dropped to around 2,000 units per month.
The updated model with flash charging and longer range is likely aimed at reversing that trend in the Chinese market.
What About Australia?
This new version of the Atto 3 has not been confirmed for Australia. BYD has not made any announcement about bringing the flash-charging model to the Australian market.
Australia is getting the Atto 3 Evo later this year. That model is a different update. It features up to 330 kW AWD performance and is built on BYD's 800V e-Platform 3.0. However, it does not use BYD's Blade Battery 2.0 or flash charging. Instead, it charges at a maximum rate of 220 kW.
BYD Atto 3 Evo vs New Atto 3 (Yuan Plus): Key Differences
Specification | Atto 3 Evo (Australia) | New Atto 3 / Yuan Plus (China) |
Drive | AWD (dual motor) or RWD | RWD (single motor) |
Peak Power | Up to 330 kW | 200 kW or 240 kW |
Battery | Blade Battery (1st gen) | Blade Battery 2.0 |
Max Charge Rate | 220 kW | Flash charging (10-80% in 5 min) |
Architecture | 800V e-Platform 3.0 | New RWD EV platform |
Range (WLTP est.) | Up to 510 km | Approx. 432-504 km |
Range (CLTC) | Not stated | 540 km or 630 km |
Australia Confirmed | Yes | No |
The Atto 3 Evo is a performance-focused update. The new Yuan Plus is more focused on range and charging speed. They are different products aimed at different buyers.
About the author
Danny Thai
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data.
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