The BYD Atto 3, a popular small-medium electric SUV, is set to receive substantial upgrades with the introduction of higher-performance rear- and all-wheel drive variants. These changes, already approved for sale in Australia, bring significant improvements in power, charging speed, and range.
Enhanced Performance and Drivetrains
The updated Atto 3 – rebranded as the Atto 3 Evo in the UK and Europe – will offer two new drivetrain options: a 230kW single-motor rear-wheel drive configuration and a more potent 330kW dual-motor all-wheel drive system. These figures represent a major leap over the current Australian models, which are limited to a 150kW front-wheel drive setup.
The rear-wheel drive Evo can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds, while the all-wheel drive version slashes that time to just 3.9 seconds. This positions the Atto 3 Evo as a serious contender in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Faster Charging and Extended Range
The Atto 3 Evo adopts BYD’s new E-Platform 3.0, featuring an 800V electrical architecture. This allows for DC fast-charging at up to 220kW – a substantial upgrade from the current 80kW limit – enabling significantly quicker top-ups. AC charging also improves to 11kW.
The new model exclusively uses a larger 74.8kWh lithium iron-phosphate (LFP) Blade battery. This results in a WLTP-rated range of up to 510km for the rear-wheel drive variant and 470km for the all-wheel drive, addressing range anxiety for potential buyers.
Improved Practicality and Interior Updates
Beyond performance, the Atto 3 Evo offers increased practicality. The battery’s integrated chassis design enhances rigidity while freeing up 50L of extra boot space, bringing total capacity to 490L with seats up and 1360L folded down. A new 110L “frunk” under the bonnet adds further storage.
Inside, the infotainment screen grows from 5.0 to 8.8 inches, and the transmission controls relocate to a wand behind the steering wheel. The 15.6-inch touchscreen retains Google apps (Maps, Assistant, Play Store) but is now fixed in place. Additional features include wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, heated seats, and a head-up display.
Subtle Exterior Refresh
The exterior design receives minor tweaks, including revised front and rear bumpers, slimmer side skirts, a redesigned spoiler, new taillight graphics, and updated alloy wheels. These changes maintain the Atto 3’s distinctive look while signaling the model’s evolution.
Advanced Safety Features
The Atto 3 Evo includes a comprehensive suite of safety technologies: adaptive cruise control, front and rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, lane departure assist, collision warning, traffic sign recognition, and automated speed-limit control. These features enhance driver confidence and safety on the road.
The BYD Atto 3 Evo represents a significant step forward in electric SUV technology. The combination of increased power, faster charging, extended range, and improved practicality positions it as a compelling option for consumers seeking a high-performance and efficient EV.
