Kamal Ghorui
Leading electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has refreshed its popular Atto 3 electric SUV. Now called Atto 3 Evo, it features a larger battery pack, which promises improved driving range, along with a set of technology and feature enhancements. The new e-SUV has been revealed for the global markets, and the India launch is expected to happen sometime this year. When launched, it continues its competition with Mahindra BE 6, Hyundai Creta EV, Harrier EV and other similarly priced electric SUVs in the Indian market. Talking about the battery pack first, the Atto 3 EVO features a larger 74.8kWh battery pack, up from 60.5kWh, delivering a WLTP-rated range of 510km, an increase of 92km over the earlier 418km figure. The updated model also gets a repositioned motor producing 313hp and 380Nm, marking gains of 109hp and 70Nm compared with the previous front-wheel-drive setup. BYD claims a 0–100kph time of 5.5 seconds, 1.8 seconds quicker than before, while top speed is rated at 180kph.
The Atto 3 Evo AWD uses the same battery pack but delivers higher outputs of 449hp and 560Nm. It accelerates from 0–100kph in a claimed 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 200kph, though the WLTP range drops to 470km. The Atto 3 evo also features an 800V electrical architecture, raising peak charging capacity from 88kW to 220kW. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 25 minutes. The new battery also adds vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, enabling it to power external devices at up to 3kW.
There are no changes to the car’s exterior design, which remains identical to the outgoing model. The only visible update comes in the form of newly designed multi-spoke alloy wheels. The Atto 3 Evo also gets five-link rear suspension, replacing the earlier four-link arrangement. The changes are complemented by an increase in boot capacity to 490 litres. In addition, the Atto 3 Evo now offers a 101-litre frunk under the bonnet.
Moving inside, the Atto 3 Evo gets the same interior layout but introduces updated technology. It comes with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen with integrated Google services. The gear selector has been relocated to the steering column, creating additional space in the centre console. Higher variants add features such as a head-up display and heated rear seats, while a comprehensive set of driver assistance and safety systems is offered as standard.
