BYD has officially revealed its refreshed Atto 3 electric SUV in China, although it's still unclear when the updated model will make its way to Australia. The Atto 3, known as the Yuan Plus in China, receives freshened exterior styling and a handful of new technology features, but retains the same power and driving range as its predecessor.
Australian Availability: 12-24 Month Wait?
Representatives for the brand have previously indicated that it could take between 12 to 24 months for new vehicles launched in China to be developed for right-hand drive markets like Australia.
Exterior Design Updates
As previewed in leaked Chinese government approval documents, the Atto 3's front bumper now sports more aggressive side air aprons, closely resembling those seen on the BYD Seal sedan.
The rear bumper receives a sharper lower portion, and a new stepped rear spoiler with two split top brake lights replaces the conventional strip on the current model. Chinese models also feature new five-spoke wheels, replacing the current five twin-spoke design. The patterned C/D-pillar trim has been replaced with a more conventional body-color insert.
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
Chinese models of the refreshed Atto 3 will be equipped with the latest 'God's Eye' advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). This system is powered by an array of sensors, including:
- Three cameras behind the windscreen
- Four surround-view cameras
- Five long-range cameras
- Five-millimetre-wave radars
- Twelve ultrasonic radars
One of the cameras appears to be positioned above the front number plate holder.
Interior Tweaks
Images of the Atto 3’s interior reveal a more conservative design overall. Key changes include:
- A larger digital instrument cluster
- A new flat-bottom steering wheel
- The gear shifter moved from the center console to the steering column
The gear shifter relocation has freed up space in the center console, now occupied by a 50-watt smartphone charger capable of accommodating two phones.
Powertrain and Battery
No changes have been made to the Atto 3's powertrain. It continues to be powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 150kW and 310Nm, paired with battery options ranging from 49.9kWh to 60.5kWh.
BYD Atto 3 Essential: A More Affordable Option
The reveal of the updated Yuan Plus in China comes after BYD Australia announced it would introduce a new, more affordable Essential base model Atto 3, priced from $39,990 before on-road costs.
