Why are we introducing the BYD Atto 3 now? it was not so? released some time ago? Yes, but basic models are hard to come by. Brands usually only display the best variants and buyers also love the higher spec cars which are much more common on the road. This is the first time we’ve been up close with the standard range BYD Atto 3, the RM149,800 entry-level 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). , 420km WLTP). The SR you see here is priced just under RM150k, while the ER will set you back RM167,800 on the road, not including insurance.
Both batteries are connected to a front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS/310 Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is 7.3 seconds for both. This means that only the range and kit separate SR and ER.
The Atto 3 is based on a 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 70 kW (SR) or 80 kW. (ER). At the highest input speed, a 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 Lithium Iron Phosphate Sheet (LFP), manufactured internally by BYD, is a differentiating factor compared to other electric vehicles on the market. Its benefits are not just in theory, but come into play on a daily basis through the maximum usable range: watch our video review for the full explanation.
It may be an entry, but equipment-wise, the Atto 3 SR is very well-stacked. It comes with a (very large) panoramic sunroof, heated power side mirrors, 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster, leatherette seats, six-way power driver’s seat (four-way for passenger), 360 camera degrees, tire pressure monitor, electronic parking brake with automatic hold, LED headlights and adaptive taillights and headlights.
Automatic air conditioning and an NFC access card (wave in the rear-view mirrors) are also turned on. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is wireless: the former is on board now, while AA will be available in Q2 2023. You’ll also get a built-in dashcam (not a separate camera taped to the windshield) and six speakers. The Atto 3’s cockpit party piece, a rotating 12.8-inch center touchscreen where you can choose between landscape or portrait with a button, is standard.
What’s left for the ER then? The most expensive car (for RM18k) adds an electronic tailgate, multicolor gradient rhythmic ambient lighting on the door handles (single color 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 more conventional in design—it’s the only way to tell the SR from the ER from the outside.
When it comes to safety, there are no differences between the variants. The five-star Euro NCAP-rated EV has six airbags plus a driver’s center side (inner-shoulder) airbag, full ADAS with stop-start for ACC, and door-open warning are standard. Isofix child seat mounts are located on the two outer rear seats and on the front passenger seat, for three in all.
So there you have it, the BYD Atto 3 Standard Range, which loses 70km of range and a few luxuries for RM18k less. Perhaps that’s not a huge sum for those considering EVs, so we’ll continue to see more of the extended range on the road, even though the SR is well-equipped. What is your opinion? Take a look at our BYD Atto 3 full reviewpossibly the most important new electric vehicle launched in Malaysia so far.
GALLERY: BYD Atto 3 Standard Range
GALLERY: BYD Atto 3 Extended Range
