Sime Darby Beyond Auto has introduced the BYD Atto 3 Anniversary Limited Edition, a 500-unit limited run of the all-electric SUV to celebrate the brand’s first anniversary in the country. There are no mechanical changes, with the LE – which is based on an Atto 3 Extended Range variant – simply getting cosmetic enhancements courtesy of an exclusive body kit package.
Available in a choice of Boulder Grey or Ski White exterior colours, the Anniversary LE dresses up the Atto 3 with a new front bumper lip, front bumper panels, black side mirror covers, a rear spoiler, side step panels and a rear diffuser. Additionally, the side window frames on the LE have been de-chromed, as has the C-pillar panel cover.
Launched exactly a year ago, the Atto 3 is available in two variant forms, these being a Standard Range with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 410 km of range (NEDC, 345 km WLTP) and an Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery, rated for 480 km (NEDC, 420 km WLTP).
Both battery versions feature the same powertrain, in this case a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS and 310 Nm, which gets the EV to 100 km/h from standstill in 7.3 seconds.
The Atto 3 is built on 400V architecture and supports AC charging (Type 2) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2), the latter at a maximum rate of either 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW (ER). At the higher input rate, a 0-80% state of charge can be reached in 45 minutes.
Inside, everything remains as it is, from the 12.8-inch rotating central touchscreen – which offers either landscape or portrait view of the display – and panoramic sunroof to the faux leather seats, auto-air conditioning and 360-degree camera.
On top of this, the Atto 3 Extended Range features an electronic tailgate, an eight-speaker audio system with “Dirac HD” sound, a PM 2.5 air filter as well as a wireless phone charger. The variant, which rides on 18-inch wheels wrapped with 215/55 profile tyres, also comes with multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handle, up from the single colour on the Standard Range.
The BYD Atto 3 Anniversary Limited Edition makes its debut at an introductory price of RM173,800, and will be available for viewing at the BYD 1st Anniversary: Beyond Dreams Celebration event at Bukit Kiara Indoor Arena this weekend. Sales of the LE have begun, with the company saying that initial deliveries to customers are scheduled to begin in early 2024.
Why are we featuring the BYD Atto 3 now? Wasn’t it launched some time back? Yes, but base models are hard to come by. Typically, brands only showcase the top variants and buyers also love the higher spec cars, which are way more common on the road. This is the first time we’re up close with the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range, the RM149,800 entry variant of the EV.
BYD SD Motors Malaysia is selling two variants of the Atto 3, the Standard Range with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 410 km of range (NEDC, 345 km WLTP), and the Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery, rated for 480 km (NEDC, 420 km WLTP). The SR you see here is priced at a shade below RM150k, while the ER will set you back RM167,800 on-the-road excluding insurance.
Both batteries are connected to a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS/310 Nm. 0-100 km/h acceleration is 7.3 seconds for both. This means that only range and kit separates SR and ER.
The Atto 3 is built on 400V architecture and supports AC charging (Type 2) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2), the latter at a max rate of either 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW (ER). At the higher input rate, 0-80% state of charge can be reached in 45 minutes. The car has a V2L function to power other devices.
Speaking of batteries, the Atto 3’s Blade Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, made in-house by BYD, is a differentiating factor compared to other EVs on the market. Its benefits isn’t just in theory, but they come into play daily via maximum usable range – watch our video review for the full explanation.
Entry it may be, but equipment wise, the Atto 3 SR is very well-stacked. It comes with a (very big) panoramic sunroof, heated electric wing mirrors, 5.0-inch digital instrument panel, faux leather seats, six-way powered driver’s seat (four-way for passenger), 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitor, electronic parking brake with auto hold, LED headlamps and rear lights and adaptive front lights.
Also on are auto air con and an NFC key card (wave at wing mirrors). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is wireless – the former is onboard now while AA will be available in Q2 2023. You’ll also get a built-in dashcam (not a separate camera stuck on the windscreen) and six speakers. The Atto 3 cabin’s party piece – a 12.8-inch rotating central touchscreen where you can choose between landscape or portrait via a button – is standard across.
What’s left for the ER then? The costlier car (by RM18k) adds on an electronic tailgate, multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (single colour on the SR) and eight speakers with “Dirac HD” sound, PM 2.5 air filter, wireless phone charger and 18-inch wheels with 215/55 rubber. The SR’s 17-inch wheels are smaller and have a more conventional design – it’s the only way to tell SR from ER from the outside.
Safety wise, there are no differences between variants. The five-star Euro NCAP rated EV gets six airbags plus an centre side airbag for the driver (inside shoulder), full ADAS with stop and go for the ACC and door open warning are standard. Isofix child seat mounts are on the two outer rear seats and front passenger seat, for three in total.
So there you have it, the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range, which loses 70 km of range and a few luxuries for RM18k less. Perhaps that’s not a huge sum for those considering EVs, which is why we’ll continue to see more of the Extended Range on the road, even though the SR is well-kitted. What’s your take? Check out our full review of the BYD Atto 3, possibly the most important new EV to be launched in Malaysia so far.
The BYD Atto 3 is quite possibly the most important new EV to be launched in Malaysia. If you’re looking to buy your first EV, this is – without a doubt – your best option right now. Those are the words of Hafriz Shah, who is very impressed by the latest EV to hit our market. Of course, he knows what he’s talking about, having tested every EV to be launched here so far.
What about the Atto 3 that’s so impressive? What’s the real world range? And what’s the catch? Of course there’s a catch, which you’ll find out in this full review of BYD’s first product for Malaysia.
Launched by BYD SD Motors Malaysia (BYD SDM, part of Sime Darby Motors) in December, we get two variants of the Atto 3, the Standard Range with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 410 km of range (NEDC, 345 km WLTP), and the Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery, rated for 480 km (NEDC, 420 km WLTP). The SR is priced at RM149,800 while the ER will set you back RM167,800, on-the-road excluding insurance.
The batteries are connected to a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS/310 Nm. 0-100 km/h acceleration is 7.3 seconds for both. This means that only range and kit separates SR and ER.
The Atto 3 is built on 400V architecture and supports AC charging (Type 2) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2), the latter at a max rate of either 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW (ER). At the higher input rate, 0-80% state of charge can be reached in 45 minutes. The car has a V2L function to power other devices.
Speaking of batteries, the Atto 3’s Blade Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, made in-house by BYD, is a differentiating factor compared to other EVs on the market. Its benefits isn’t just in theory, but they come into play daily via usable range – full explanation in the video.
By the way, if you’re wondering about the Atto 3’s size, it’s larger than a Proton X50. At 4,455 mm long and 1,875 wide, the BYD EV is 125 mm longer than Proton’s B-segment SUV, and 75 mm wider. The Atto 3’s 2,720 mm wheelbase is 120 mm longer than the X50’s. The EV’s 440L boot is 110L larger than the our ICE benchmark. What do you think of the design? We think it looks neat and has some cool details, but pretty generic.
But that’s before you get into the wild cabin, which is so wacky that you might think you’re in an experimental concept car. Certainly not the inoffensive crossover you saw earlier. Dashboard shaped after muscles, guitar strings as door pockets, twist-to-open door handles and a blue-white-red theme means it’s a cabin you’ll either love or hate. If you hate it, why la so serious?
We haven’t even mentioned the cabin’s party piece – the 12.8-inch rotating central touchscreen where you can choose between landscape or portrait via a button. The Atto 3’s seats are also among the most comfortable chairs we’ve ever sat in, EV or ICE, at any price.
Equipment wise, the Atto 3 SR comes with a (very big) panoramic sunroof, heated electric wing mirrors, 5.0-inch digital instrument panel, faux leather seats, six-way powered driver’s seat (four-way for passenger), 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitor, electronic parking brake with auto hold, LED headlamps and rear lights and adaptive front lights.
Also on are auto air con and an NFC key card (wave at wing mirrors). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is wireless – the former is onboard now while AA will be available in Q2 2023. You’ll also get a built-in dashcam (not a separate camera stuck on the windscreen) and six speakers.
The ER adds on an electronic tailgate, multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (single colour on the SR) and eight speakers with “Dirac HD” sound, PM 2.5 air filter and a wireless phone charger. From the outside, the ER you see here can be differentiated by its 18-inch wheels (215/55). The SR rides on 215/60 R17 rubber.
Safety wise, it’s very comprehensive on this five-star Euro NCAP rated car, and both SR and ER get the same kit. Six airbags plus an centre side airbag for the driver (inside shoulder), full ADAS with stop and go for the ACC and door open warning are standard. Isofix child seat mounts are on the two outer rear seats and front passenger seat, for three in total.
It’s some car, the BYD Atto 3 – watch the review and tell us what you think.
Launched for the Malaysian market last week, the BYD Atto 3 fully electric crossover arrived in our market with two variants on offer, the Standard Range priced at RM149,800, and the Extended Range at RM167,800. Here, we now have a comprehensive, live gallery of the EV SUV in Extended Range guise.
The former is the base variant that is specified with a 49.92 kWh battery that is rated for 410 km of range on the NEDC test cycle (345 km WLTP), while the latter is the higher specification variant that brings a 60.48 kWh battery, offering 480 km of battery range on the NEDC cycle (420 km WLTP).
Both variants of the Atto 3 are powered by a 204 PS/310 Nm electric motor that drives the front wheels, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of 7.3 seconds. Its 400-volt electrical architecture supports AC charging up to 7 kW, and DC charging at up to 70 kW for the Standard Range, or 80 kW in the case of the Extended Range variant seen here. At the 80 kW charging rate, a 0-80% state of charge can be achieved in 45 minutes.
Both variants feature V2L capability to power external devices. Externally, 18-inch wheels on 215/55 tyres help identify the Extended Range variant, whereas the Standard Range ride on 17-inch units. The Extended Range also gets a powered tailgate.
Infotainment is by a 12.8-inch intelligent rotating touch screen, supporting wireless Android Auto (available from Q2 2023) and wired Apple CarPlay. The centre console and rear quarters each get one USB-C and one USB-A port, while there is also a wireless phone charger exclusive to the Extended Range.
In addition to the standard equipment list, the Extended Range is distinguished by additional kit such as multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (this is of a single colour on the Standard Range), an eight-speaker audio system (six on the SR), PM2.5 air filter and a wireless phone charger. Upholstery here on the Extended Range, as on the SR, is synthetic leather.
Safety equipment is the same no matter which variant of the Atto 3 you choose, and this consists of six airbags plus an centre side airbag for the driver (inside shoulder), full ADAS with stop and go for the ACC along with door opening warning as standard. he two outer rear seats get Isofix child seat anchors.
Boulder Grey is the exterior colour applied to the Extended Range example in our photographs here, and is part of a palette that also includes Ski White, Forest Green, Parkour Red and Surf Blue.
Factory warranty coverage for the BYD Atto 3 is six years or 150,000 km, while its Blade EV battery gets a separate warranty that is for eight years or 160,000 km. The drive assembly gets yet another warranty, which is for eight years of 150,000 km which covers the motor, motor controller, DC assembly and electric control assembly.
Like what you see so far of the BYD Atto 3 Extended Range? There’s more in the gallery below, do check it out.
The BYD Atto 3, launched yesterday as the first model of the Chinese EV specialist in Malaysia, is quite some car for RM150k. The exterior design is modern and neat, but it’s the SUV’s cabin that has the most fascination points. From its highly sculpted muscly dashboard to the twist door handles and “guitar strings” door pockets – the Atto 3 has a certain wow factor.
And that’s before you adjust the air con hoops, rotate the centre touchscreen from landscape to portrait, and sink into those super comfy seats. There’s more, as you’ll see in the walk-around video below. In it, Hafriz Shah – a man who has experienced plenty of cars – shows his surprise as he points out the BYD’s unique touches.
Official distributor BYD SD Motors Malaysia (BYD SDM, part of Sime Darby Motors) is offering two variants of the Atto 3, the Standard Range with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 410 km of range (NEDC, 345 km WLTP), and the Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery, rated for 480 km (NEDC, 420 km WLTP).
The SR is priced at RM149,800 while the ER will set you back RM167,800. Prices for this CBU EV are duty exempted, on-the-road excluding insurance. The final prices are slightly lower than the pre-booking estimates of RM150k and RM170k. A “Grand Launch Special” introductory package adds on a free portable home charger, free V2L extension cable and RM1,000 worth of public charging credit.
Both in-house Blade EV batteries are connected to a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS/310 Nm. 0-100 km/h acceleration is 7.3 seconds for both. This means that only range and kit separates SR and ER.
The Atto 3 is built on 400V architecture and supports AC charging (Type 2) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2), the latter at a max rate of either 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW (ER). At the higher input rate, 0-80% state of charge can be reached in 45 minutes. The car has a V2L function to power other devices.
By the way, if you’re wondering about the Atto 3’s size, it’s larger than a Proton X50. At 4,455 mm long and 1,875 wide, the BYD EV is 125 mm longer than Proton’s B-segment SUV, and 75 mm wider. The Atto 3’s 2,720 mm wheelbase is 120 mm longer than the X50’s. The EV’s 440L boot is 110L larger than the our ICE benchmark. By the way, the 1,750 kg ER is 70 kg heavier than the SR.
Equipment wise, the Atto 3 SR comes with a panoramic sunroof, heated electric wing mirrors, 5.0-inch digital instrument panel, faux leather seats, six-way powered driver’s seat (four-way for passenger), 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitor, electronic parking brake with auto hold, LED headlamps and rear lights and adaptive front lights.
Also on are a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen (landscape or portrait, not angle), auto air con and an NFC key card (wave at wing mirrors). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is wireless – the former is onboard now while AA will be available in Q2 2023. Spotify is already present, though. You’ll also get a built-in dashcam and six speakers.
The ER adds on an electronic tailgate, multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (single colour on the SR) and eight speakers with “Dirac HD” sound, PM2.5 air filter and a wireless phone charger. From the outside, the ER can be differentiated by its 18-inch wheels and 215/55 Batman tyres. Yes, Batman. The SR rides on 215/60 R17 rubber.
Safety wise, it’s very comprehensive on this five-star Euro NCAP rated car, and both SR and ER get the same kit. Six airbags plus an centre side airbag for the driver (inside shoulder), full ADAS with stop and go for the ACC and door open warning are standard. Isofix child seat mounts are on the two outer rear seats.
So, what do you think of the BYD Atto 3? Rivals in the entry-level full EV arena are the Hyundai Kona Electric (RM156k to RM208k) and perhaps the base 58 kWh Lite version of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (RM207k). Great Wall Motors’ Ora Good Cat was launched last month, priced from RM139,800 to RM169,800. Older EV names that have been somewhat forgotten include the latest Renault Zoe (RM163k) and the OG of EVs, the Nissan Leaf.
Click to enlarge spec sheet
Once again, the Atto 3 starts from RM149,800 for the Standard Range while the Extended Range goes for RM167,800. The factory warranty is six years or 150,000 km, while the in-house LFP Blade EV battery’s separate warranty is for eight years or 160,000 km. There’s another separate warranty for the drive unit – eight years or 150,000 km for the motor, motor controller, DC assembly and electric control assembly.
Lastly, there are five colours – Ski White, Boulder Grey, Forest Green, Parkour Red and the signature Surf Blue in the video – and the interior is in a breezy Eclipse Blue/Hazy Grey combo.
The BYD Grand Launch event is open to the public from today till Sunday, and you can come over and experience the Atto 3 for yourself, as well as BYD’s tech showcase. Details here. The Seal and Dolphin EVs, which are set for a late-2023 debut, are also in the big white dome. Click the links to read more.
The BYD brand is now officially launched in Malaysia, and the Chinese EV specialist is having a full weekend of activities and test drives at Bandar Malaysia in KL. The first model for BYD here and the star of the show is the BYD Atto 3, a fully electric crossover that was just unveiled by new MITI minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
Official distributor BYD SD Motors Malaysia (BYD SDM, part of Sime Darby Motors) is offering two variants of the Atto 3, the Standard Range with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 410 km of range (NEDC, 345 km WLTP), and the Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery, rated for 480 km (NEDC, 420 km WLTP).
The SR is priced at RM149,800 while the ER will set you back RM167,800. Prices for this CBU EV are duty exempted, on-the-road excluding insurance. The final prices are slightly lower than the pre-booking estimates of RM150k and RM170k. A “Grand Launch Special” introductory package adds on a free portable home charger, free V2L extension cable and RM1,000 worth of public charging credit.
Both in-house Blade EV batteries are connected to a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS/310 Nm. 0-100 km/h acceleration is 7.3 seconds for both. This means that only range and kit separates SR and ER.
The Atto 3 is built on 400V architecture and supports AC charging (Type 2) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2), the latter at a max rate of either 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW (ER). At the higher input rate, 0-80% state of charge can be reached in 45 minutes. The car has a V2L function to power other devices.
By the way, if you’re wondering about the Atto 3’s size, it’s larger than a Proton X50. At 4,455 mm long and 1,875 wide, the BYD EV is 125 mm longer than Proton’s B-segment SUV, and 75 mm wider. The Atto 3’s 2,720 mm wheelbase is 120 mm longer than the X50’s. The EV’s 440L boot is 110L larger than the our ICE benchmark. By the way, the 1,750 kg ER is 70 kg heavier than the SR.
Equipment wise, the Atto 3 SR comes with a panoramic sunroof, heated electric wing mirrors, 5.0-inch digital instrument panel, faux leather seats, six-way powered driver’s seat (four-way for passenger), 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitor, electronic parking brake with auto hold, LED headlamps and rear lights and adaptive front lights.
Also on are a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen (landscape or portrait, not angle), auto air con and an NFC key card (wave at wing mirrors). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is wireless – the former is onboard now while AA will be available in Q2 2023. Spotify is already present, though. You’ll also get a built-in dashcam and six speakers.
The ER adds on an electronic tailgate, multi-colour gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (single colour on the SR) and eight speakers with “Dirac HD” sound, PM2.5 air filter and a wireless phone charger. From the outside, the ER can be differentiated by its 18-inch wheels (215/55). The SR rides on 215/60 R17 rubber.
Safety wise, it’s very comprehensive on this five-star Euro NCAP rated car, and both SR and ER get the same kit. Six airbags plus an centre side airbag for the driver (inside shoulder), full ADAS with stop and go for the ACC and door open warning are standard. Isofix child seat mounts are on the two outer rear seats.
So, what do you think of the BYD Atto 3? Rivals in the entry-level full EV arena are the Hyundai Kona Electric (RM156k to RM208k) and perhaps the base 58 kWh Lite version of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (RM207k). Great Wall Motors’ Ora Good Cat was launched last month, priced from RM139,800 to RM169,800. Older EV names that have been somewhat forgotten include the latest Renault Zoe (RM163k) and the OG of EVs, the Nissan Leaf.
Once again, the Atto 3 starts from RM149,800 for the Standard Range while the Extended Range goes for RM167,800. The factory warranty is six years or 150,000 km, while the Blade EV battery’s separate warranty is for eight years or 160,000 km. There’s another separate warranty for the drive unit – eight years or 150,000 km for the motor, motor controller, DC assembly and electric control assembly.
Click to enlarge spec sheet
Lastly, there are five colours – Ski White, Boulder Grey, Forest Green, Parkour Red and the signature Surf Blue – and the interior is in an Eclipse Blue/Hazy Grey combo.
The BYD Grand Launch event is open to the public from tomorrow till Sunday, and you can come over and experience the Atto 3 for yourself, as well as BYD’s tech showcase. Details here. The Seal and Dolphin EVs, which are set for a late-2023 debut, are also in the house. Click the links to read more.
The Atto 3 ‘Standard Range’ is estimated to cost RM150k while the Atto 3 ‘Extended Range’ is expected to go for around RM170k. To book, customers will need to put down a RM1,500 deposit which is refundable. The pre-booking is only for the first 100 units of the Atto 3.
The fully electric crossover is available with two different battery capacities. The Standard Range model is fitted with a 49.92 kWh battery pack while the Extended Range model is equipped with a larger 60.48 kWh battery. BYD claims the Atto 3 Standard Range can go up to 410 km on a single charge, based on the NEDC test cycle (345 km WLTP) while the Extended Range can return up to 480 km of range on the NEDC test cycle (420 km WLTP).
Both options are BYD’s in-house developed Blade LFP battery packs used to power a front-mounted electric motor, effectively making the Atto 3 crossover front-wheel drive, with 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque. The Atto 3 supports AC charging up to 7 kW along with DC fast charging up to 70 kW or 80 kW depending on the battery capacity. With up to 80 kW DC fast charging, the Atto 3 can be charged from 0-80% state of charge (SoC) in 45 minutes.
The Atto 3 will be available in five colours – Ski White, Boulder Grey, Forest Green, Parkour Red and Surf Blue. With a price range of between RM150k to RM170k, the Atto 3 will compete against the likes of the Hyundai Kona Electric which ranges between RM156k to RM208k. This also puts the Atto 3 in direct competition with GWM’s Ora Good Cat which was just launched in Malaysia yesterday, starting from RM140k.
The Atto 3 recently made headlines in Thailand after it caused a frenzy among local buyers with long queues starting from as early as 3am for a slot to purchase the electric crossover.
With its imminent local launch, coupled with the buzz the Atto 3 has generated, BYD’s incredible global sales momentum for NEVs looks set to continue. Last week, the company announced that it had sold one million NEVs in just six months. NEVs is a term used in China to refer to electried vehicles including hybrid, PHEV and fully electric vehicles. How do you think the Atto 3 will be received in Malaysia? Pricing is pretty competitive eh?
Sime Darby Motors, the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, has announced it will hold a grand launch for the Atto 3 from December 9-11, 2022. Set to take place at Bandar Malaysia, the company is inviting the public to attend the event, although you’ll want to register fast as there are limited spots available.
The Atto 3 is one of a few BYD models that have been confirmed for Malaysia, and the fully electric crossover will be offered with a choice of two battery capacities. The first is a 49.92-kWh pack that offers up to 345 km of range following the WLTP standard (410 km NEDC), while the other option is a 60.48-kWh unit that provides up to 420 km of range (480 km NEDC).
Both are BYD’s in-house developed Blade EV battery packs that power a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) and 310 Nm of torque. The Atto 3 supports AC charging (Type 2 connection) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2 connection), the latter at a max of either 70 kW or 80 kW corresponding to battery capacity – the higher input allows for a 0-80% state of charge to be reached in 45 minutes.
Final pricing (and specifications) will be revealed when the Atto 3 is officially launched but it is estimated to retail between RM150k to RM170k. The projected price range places the BYD EV within range of the Hyundai Kona Electric that starts from RM156k and tops out at RM208k, the latter also capable of netting the base Lite variant of the Ioniq 5 with a 58-kWh battery.
The Atto 3’s estimated price range is also in direct contention with the GWM Ora Good Cat, which is another EV from China that will be sold here. Last week, we reported that the Good Cat had received over 100 bookings even before its official launch. The GWM EV is expected to cost between RM150k to RM160k and will be offered in four variants and two battery capacities.
Once again, if you’re interested and want to be among the first to get up close with the Atto 3, RSVP for the launch event that takes place at Bandar Malaysia from December 9-11, 2022.
Following official confirmation by BYD SD Motors Malaysia that the BYD Atto 3 and e6 electric vehicles will be launched in Malaysia early next month, we now have an early sighting of the Atto 3 on local roads, specifically in the Ara Damansara, Selangor area where Sime Darby Motors is located.
These images were sent by paultan.org reader Jason Chin, who spotted the Atto3 on the back of the truck as he was sending his own car for service in the vicinity. Though this particular example of the Atto 3 is concealed under wraps, we can see that this unit wears the two-tone, machined finish swept-five-spoke wheel design as depicted in overseas imagery.
Known as the Yuan Plus in its home market in China, the Atto 3 packs a front-mounted electric motor rated to produce 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque.
Click to enlarge
The model has been confirmed to be offered in Malaysia with a choice of two battery options; a 49.92 kWh battery pack offering up to 345 km of range on the WLTP protocol (410 km NEDC), and a larger 60.48 kWh pack rated to give up to 420 km of range WLTP (480 km NEDC). These are BYD’s in-house, safety-oriented Blade EV battery packs.
Charging the Atto 3 EV can be done via AC with a Type 2 connection at up to 7 kW, as well as DC fast charging via a CCS2 connection. The DCFC input can be accommodated at a maximum rate of 70 kW or 80 kW depending of the battery specified, and the higher of the two input rates allows a 0-80% state of charge to be attained in 45 minutes.
The Atto 3, along with the e6 that will also be launched in Malaysia early next month, has been estimated to have pricing in the region of RM150k to RM170k. This price range places the Atto 3 in a full-EV field that is also populated by the Hyundai Kona Electric that is priced from RM156k to RM208k, and at its upper end of the price range, perhaps the base 58 kWh Lite variant of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, too.
Of course, it has a compatriot in the Great Wall Motors Ora Good Cat which is even closer in price, with the retro-styled Good Cat set to launch this month and estimated to start from under RM150k and reach above RM160k for the top-spec variants. 3
The Atto 3 SUV has gone on sale in Australia priced from RM137k Down Under, following the opening of its order books in February, and it will also be launched in Thailand on October 10 in Extended Range guise, which can do up to 420 km on a full charge.
Dimensions-wise, the Atto3 is 4,455 mm long, 1,875 mm wide and 1,615 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm. For comparison, the Hyundai Kona Electric stretches the tape at 4,180 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,570 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm.
2022 BYD Atto 3 Singapore (left) and Australia (right) spec sheets – click to enlarge
In Thailand, the Extended Range that will be the debut variant of the Atto 3 SUV will be priced at 1.2 million baht (RM147k), and this packs the 60.48 kWh Blade LFP battery that is rated for 420 km range on the WLTP test protocol (the standard closest to real-world range); the Standard Range variant uses the 49.92 kWh battery that offers 345 km of range (WLTP).
According to Singaporean market specifications, motive power comes from a front-mounted electric motor producing 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.3 seconds.
The electric SUV can be charged at a maximum of 80 kW DC through a CCS2 connection, or up to 6.6 kW AC through a Type 2 plug. Charging at 50 kW DC from 20-80% takes 42 minutes, while a full charge from zero at 80 kW DC takes 1.2 hours; charging from 0-100% via 6.6 kW AC takes 9.5 hours.
Compared to Singapore which gets the Atto 3 in just one battery variant (the larger 60.5 kWh unit), Malaysia could take after the Australian market entry which offers buyers two, additionally offering the 49.92 kWh battery variant. Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has taken a similar approach for the Kona Electric, which is on sale in Malaysia in three variants across the 39.2 kWh and 64 kWh battery capacities.
Singapore specifications for the Atto 3 also include a vehicle-to-load (V2L) mobile power supply function, which can be done up at a rate up to 2.2 kW. Also on are the DiLink Intelligent Connection System, NFC card-enabled smart entry and engine start, a wireless phone charger, air purification mode, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (from Q4 2022), Smart Voice Assistance (also from Q4), the BYD OS app and more.
For safety equipment, there are seven airbags, a 350-degree surround view monitor, digital video recorder (DVR), full speed-range stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, AEB, front and rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, rear cross traffic braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and door-open warning.
Do you like the human muscle aesthetic? The BYD Atto 3 interior offers a full-width view
These are also joined by a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill descent control, traction control, ESP, ABS, EBD, as well as two front and four rear radar sensors.
The aforementioned pricing for the BYD Atto 3, in ringgit terms, starts from RM137k and from RM147k in Australia and Thailand, respectively, which stands to reason that the eventual Malaysian market entry could come in from under the RM150k mark as well, given the conditions of the current EV incentives in the country.
The local arrival of the BYD Atto 3 has yet to be given a firm date, though it will certainly join a fast-growing segment here in Malaysia, including the likes of the Kona Electric that is offered from a similar price point. What do you think of the Chinese carmaker’s electric SUV offering? Let us know in the comments section.
The Chinese EV specialist‘s first model in the kingdom will be the BYD Atto 3, and Headlightmag says that it will be close what Australia gets in terms of specs. The Extended Range variant will debut next month at around 1.2 million baht (RM146,809) and the Standard Range will launch at the end of 2022, possibly at the Thailand International Motor Expo.
The report says that BYD will not be using the Nissan assembly plant, despite the fact that Rever Automotive is led by Pratarnwong ‘Pok’ Phornprapha, the third generation heir of Siam Motors Group, an old name in the local car industry associated with Nissan in Thailand. Instead, the EV maker will set up its first ASEAN plant in Rayong, Thailand’s auto hub that’s further down from Pattaya.
Deliveries of the Atto 3, known as the Yuan Plus in China, have just started in Australia. There, customers can choose from the Standard Range for A$44,990 (RM137,364) or the Extended Range for A$47,990 (RM146,523), before state-specific EV incentives. The Extended Range price is similar to the expected Thai price with government incentives.
The neat-looking electric crossover features a front-mounted 204 PS/310 Nm electric motor, which is good for 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. The Standard Range comes with a 49.92 kWh battery offering 345 km of range (WLTP, 410 km if NEDC), while the Extended Range gets a 60.48 kWh unit that’s rated at 420 km (WLTP, 480 km if NEDC). The in-house Blade EV batteries support AC charging (Type 2 connection) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2).
For the latter, the Standard Range can take in 70 kW max, while it’s 80 kW for the Extended Range, the higher input allowing for 0-80% state of charge in 45 minutes. One can also charge appliances via V2L (vehicle-to-load) at up to 2.2 kW.
Kit-wise, it’s the same for both range variants in Australia. The list includes 18-inch wheels with 215/55 tyres, LED exterior lighting, panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, 5.0-inch digital instrument display, 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic air-con with PM2.5 air filter, synthetic leather upholstery, powered/heated front seats, wireless charger as well as keyless entry and start with card key.
On the safety front, there’s seven airbags, a 360-degree view monitor and a full ADAS pack. Down Under, the Atto 3 comes with a six-year/150,000-km warranty plus an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty. What do you think of the BYD Atto 3 versus something like the Hyundai Kona Electric, currently the most affordable EV in Malaysia?
EVDirect, the local distributor of BYD vehicles in Australia, has begun delivering the Atto 3 to customers, with the first located in the city of Robina, Queensland. Order taking for the all-electric crossover, which is known as the Yuan Plus in China, started in Australia this February.
The Atto 3 features a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS (201 hp) and 310 Nm of torque, which is good for a zero to 100 km/h time of 7.3 seconds. Customers have variants to choose from, with the Standard Range being a 49.92-kWh unit offering up to 345 km of range following the WLTP standard (410 km if NEDC).
Meanwhile, the Extended Range is a 60.48-kWh unit that provides up to 420 km (480 km if NEDC). Both variants get the Chinese carmaker’s Blade EV battery and support AC charging (Type 2 connection) up to 7 kW as well as DC fast charging (CCS2 connection).
2022 BYD Atto 3 spec sheet (Australia market)
The latter is 70 kW for the Standard Range and 80 kW for the Extended Range, with the higher input allowing for a 0-80% state of charge in just 45 minutes. There’s also bi-directional charging (vehicle-to-load or V2L) at up to 2.2 kW and adjustable regenerative braking levels, although not one-pedal driving.
Regardless of which battery is fitted to the Atto 3, the kit is the same for both variants. Included are 18-inch wheels with 215/55 profile tyres, LED exterior lighting, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, a five-inch digital instrument display, a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic single-zone air-conditioning with a PM2.5 air filter, synthetic leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, a wireless charger as well as keyless entry and start (with card key).
On the safety side of things, there’s seven airbags, the usual array of passive systems, a 360-degree view monitor, front and rear parking sensors and hill descent control. Active driver assists include all-speed adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, autonomous emergency braking, front and rear collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and keeping assist and rear cross traffic alert and braking.
The Atto 3 measures 4,455 mm long, 1,875 mm wide, 1,615 mm tall and has a wheelbase that spans 2,720 mm. That makes the BYD EV larger than the Hyundai Kona Electric and about on par with the latest Kia Niro EV.
Pricing for the Atto 3 in Australia starts at AUD44,990 (RM137,364) for the Standard Range, while the Extended Range retails for higher at AUD47,990 (RM146,523) – before state-specific EV incentives. Only one interior colour scheme (Eclipse Blue and Hazy Grey) is offered, but there are four exterior hues to choose from, including Parkour Red, Surf Blue, Boulder Grey and Ski White. Each purchase is accompanied by a six-year/150,000-km vehicle warranty as well as an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty.
Warren Buffet-backed Chinese automaker BYD is expanding the availability of right hand drive versions of its passenger cars with the upcoming introduction of the BYD Atto 3 in Singapore. This comes after an Australian launch of the car earlier in February this year.
BYD calls it the Yuan Plus in China, but uses the Atto branding for right hand drive markets. The Atto range of cars is named after the attosecond, the smallest time scale unit in physics. The Atto 3 rivals other non-premium brand EV SUVs like the MG ZS, the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Kia Niro EV.
The Atto 3 measures 4,455 mm long, 1,875 mm wide, 1,615 mm tall and has a wheelbase that spans 2,720 mm. The Singapore spec car gets a front-mounted front-wheel drive 201 hp (150 kW), 310 Nm electric motor that can take it to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. A 60.4 kWh battery gives it 480 km range.
BYD’s distributor in Singapore is our very own Sime Darby Motors via their Vantage Automotive Limited company. Sime Darby does not hold the BYD distributorship for Malaysia. No pricing announced for Singapore yet ahead of the car’s 9 July 2022 launch date, but as with all Singaporean cars, it’s going to be expensive thanks to COE.
In Australia, the Atto 3 is priced at AUD44,381 (RM134,093) for the Superior with the 50.1 kWh battery, while the Superior Extended Range with the larger 60.4 kWh battery is AUD3,000 extra at AUD47,381 (RM143,157).
In other right hand drive market news, BYD has also been said to be exploring establishing a factory in Thailand to build and export right hand drive cars.
There’s no news about BYD passenger cars being introduced in Malaysia yet, but a local company CSH Alliance is interested in building a CKD plant for BYD commercial EVs in Tg Malim.
BYD has officially launched the Atto 3 in Australia, with sales of the all-electric crossover being managed by exclusive distributor EV Direct. The Atto 3 (also known as the Yuan Plus in China) is built on the e-Platform 3.0 and features the carmaker’s Blade EV battery.
Said battery is available in two energy capacities, with the standard variant (Superior) being equipped with a 50.1-kWh pack that is good for a WLTP range of 320 km. Meanwhile, the extended range variant (Superior Extended Range) gets a more substantial 60.4-kWh unit that is good for 420 km.
Both variants support AC charging up to 7 kW with a Type 2 connection, while a CCS connector allows for DC fast charging up to 80 kW. With the latter, a 20-80% state of charge can be achieved in just 45 minutes. There’s also support for bi-directional charging (vehicle-to-load or V2L), with a maximum output of 2.2 kW, which is good enough for most domestic appliances.
Regardless of the chosen battery pack, the Atto 3’s electric powertrain consists of a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) and 310 Nm of torque – the 0-100 km/h sprint takes 7.3 seconds.
In terms of dimensions, the Atto 3 measures 4,455 mm long, 1,875 mm wide, 1,615 mm tall and has a wheelbase that spans 2,720 mm. Those figures are about on par with the Hyundai Kona Electric as well as the Kia Niro EV.
On the equipment side of things, both variants come with 18-inch alloy wheels (with 215/55 profile tyres), LED lighting, a powered sunroof and tailgate, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, powered front seats, a five-inch multi-info instrument cluster display, leather upholstery, a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an eight-speaker Dirac sound system, keyless entry and start and a wireless phone charger.
Safety and driver assistance systems are comprehensive too, with seven airbags and various passive systems (ESP, TCS, ABS, EBD, hill descent control) all coming as standard. On top of that, there are active systems like Intelligent Cruise Control (active cruise control), autonomous emergency braking, front and rear collision warning, lane departure warning and assist as well as rear cross traffic alert and braking.
According to CarsGuide, pricing for the Atto 3 in Australia depends on the location it is sold in. The drive-away figure is AUD44,381 (RM134,093) for the Superior, while the Superior Extended Range is AUD3,000 extra at AUD47,381 (RM143,157). These price tags differ according to state, not considering specific EV incentives provided by each – deliveries start from July this year.
The Atto 3 competes in the affordable EV segment, with the MG ZS EV being its main rival. The ZS EV is currently available in Australia in a sole, pre-facelift specification with a 44.5-kWh battery (262 km range), 7-kW AC charging, 50-kW DC fast charging and a front electric motor rated at 143 PS (141 hp or 105 kW) and 353 Nm. The facelifted version of the ZS EV has already been revealed and is expected to reach Australia in the second half of 2022.
