The BYD Atto 3 electric family SUV is now on sale in the UK, with prices starting from £36,490.
China’s BYD, which announced its UK launch plans in January, is the world’s largest electric and electrified car brand, selling more vehicles than any other company – yes, even Tesla.
The Atto 3 is a pure electric alternative to models such as the Kia Niro EV (prices from £36,795) and the Volkswagen ID.4 (from £38,845).
It measures around 4.45 metres long, meaning it’s closely matched to the Kia, and a little smaller overall than the VW.
It has a 60.5kWh battery, for an official WLTP range of 260 miles, while the 204hp motor delivers 0-62mph acceleration in a sprightly 7.3 seconds.
The BYD Atto 3 can use 150kW DC public rapid chargers, boosting the battery from 30 percent to 80 percent charge in 29 minutes.
All three model grades also get vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality – so you can plug in devices such as laptops with a three-pin plug.
On sale this month
There will be three versions of the BYD Atto 3: Active, Comfort and Design. The higher grades are available from launch, with the more affordable Active arriving in the second half of the year.
Bosses say first deliveries will begin on 15 March 2023, through a series of newly-opened BYD ‘Pioneer’ stores (or car dealers) located in a growing number of areas, including Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Milton Keynes.
Michael Shu, general manager and MD of BYD Europe said: “BYD’s passenger car business has developed rapidly. We have made some preparations for the British market and brought a new product matrix, including our first car – the BYD Atto 3.
“At present, BYD has served a total of 3.5 million car owners. We hope to bring these experiences to the United Kingdom, which we recognise as one of the top European markets.
“With the advantages of BYD’s core technology, cost and production capacity, combined with the localised resources of local dealer groups, we will bring diversified choices to consumers and provide great customer service.”
Motoring Research will be driving the new BYD Atto 3 soon… come back to read our first drive review.
BYD Atto 3 UK Prices
- Active: £36,490
- Comfort: £36,990
- Design: £38,990
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