The BYD Atto 3, also marketed as BYD Yuan Plus () in China and several Latin American countries, is a battery electric compact crossover SUV (C-segment) manufactured by BYD Auto. The successor to the BYD Yuan, it was released in Mainland China in February 2022, and is BYD's first electric passenger car model to be exported overseas.
According to BYD, the name "Atto" was inspired by the attosecond, the smallest time scale unit in physics, depicting BYD's claim that the vehicle is "speedy, energetic, and dynamic". As part of BYD's highly successful "Dynasty" series of new energy vehicles, it is named after the Yuan dynasty.
Overview
The Atto 3, marketed as the Yuan Plus in China, is the successor of the BYD Yuan, which was also available in petrol ICE and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions in addition to the battery electric (BEV) model. The Yuan Plus only comes in a BEV model, and is significantly larger than its predecessor, occupying the C-segment compact crossover space (A-class in China).
The Yuan Plus was first showcased in August 2021 at the Chengdu Auto Show, and was officially released in February 2022 after pre-orders in China opened in January. During its introduction, BYD also announced its export market name, the Atto 3, and promised to dedicate a production line solely for the right hand drive markets.
The Yuan Plus / Atto 3 is based on BYD's latest all-electric e-Platform 3.0, unlike other models in the Dynasty Series that are modified from ICE/PHEV platforms. It is equipped with a front-wheel drive electric motor providing of torque, powered by BYD's proprietary lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade battery. It offers two battery pack options — the 49.92 kWh unit capable of travelling under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) driving cycle or under the WLTP standards; while the 60.48 kWh battery pack is rated at (CLTC) or (WLTP). It is equipped with MacPherson strut front suspension, and multi-link independent rear suspension.
The Yuan Plus / Atto 3 is built on 400-volt electrical architecture and supports maximum AC charging (Type 2) of 7 kW (standard) or 11 kW (option) as well as DC fast charging (CCS2) at a maximum rate of either 70 kW (Standard Range) or 80 kW (Extended Range). At 80 kW, charging from 0% to 80% can be completed in 45 minutes.
Its interior design is inspired by fitness culture and features aesthetics resembling gym and sports equipment such as treadmill, boxing ring, dumbbells and muscle fibers. The centre 12.8-inch (with an optional larger 15.6-inch) infotainment system is based on Android, and the screen can be rotated between portrait and landscape orientations. The boot space is measured at , or with the rear seats folded.
Markets
China
The BYD Yuan Plus was officially released in China in February.
Costa Rica
The BYD Yuan Plus was released in Costa Rica in July 2022. Two variants are offered in the country, the GL trim with a battery of 49.92 kwh with a range of under the NEDC cycle, and the GS trim, full extras with a 60.48 kwh battery and a range of also under NEDC.
Australia
The Atto 3 was introduced in Australia in August 2022, with deliveries starting in September 2022. Two models are offered, which are Standard Range and Extended Range. In October 2022, deliveries were delayed as a 'stop delivery' notice was in effect due to non-compliance of Australian Design Rules, as the rear middle seat of the Atto 3 is missing an appropriate top tether to use for a child seat. Deliveries resumed in November 2022 after a four-week pause, with modifications done for compliance.
Europe
The Atto 3 was introduced in Germany in October 2022. In the United Kingdom, the vehicle went on sale in March 2023 in three trim levels: Active, Comfort and Design.
In July 2023, the Atto 3 became the bestselling electric vehicle in Sweden, beating other popular cars like Volkswagen ID.4 and Tesla Model Y.
India
The Atto 3 was introduced in India in November 2022. It is locally assembled in India, at the company facility near Chennai.
Japan
The Atto 3 was released in Japan in February 2023 as the first BYD model introduced in the country, with deliveries scheduled in March.
Malaysia
The Atto 3 was released in Malaysia in December 2022 with two models, Standard Range and Extended Range. Deliveries started in January 2023.
Thailand
The Atto 3 was released in Thailand in October 2022. In one month after its introduction, BYD received 10,000 orders for the model.
Brunei
The Atto 3 was launched in Brunei on 8 July 2023, with only in Superior variant (60.48 kWh battery with 480 kilometre range).