The BYD Atto 3, a fully electric SUV launched in India in November 2022, might soon be getting a more budget-friendly variant. This exciting news comes courtesy of a LinkedIn post by BYD India’s Chairman and Managing Director, Ketsu Zhang, sparking speculation among potential buyers.
While BYD remains tight-lipped on official details, dealer sources have confirmed the potential launch of a new base variant, promising a more accessible price point for the popular electric SUV. Here’s a deeper dive into what we know so far:
A Smaller Battery Pack for a Lower Price
The key differentiator of the upcoming variant seems to be its battery pack. Unlike the current single, top-spec variant featuring a 60 kWh battery, the new base model is expected to sport a smaller 50 kWh unit. This modification is likely to translate into a significant reduction in price compared to the existing offering.
Here’s a quick comparison of the current and potential specifications:
| Feature | BYD Atto 3 (Current) | BYD Atto 3 (Upcoming) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Pack | 60 kWh | 50 kWh |
| Power (Confirmed) | 204 PS | To Be Revealed |
| Torque (Confirmed) | 310 Nm | To Be Revealed |
| Range (ARAI estimated) | 510 km | To Be Revealed |
While the exact power and torque figures for the new variant remain under wraps, it’s safe to assume they will be slightly lower compared to the current model due to the smaller battery capacity.
Potential Feature Trimming for Cost Efficiency
The new base variant’s focus on affordability might lead to some compromises in terms of features. While official details are unavailable, BYD might omit certain creature comforts and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) from this version.
The current BYD Atto 3 boasts a generous list of features, including:
- 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
- 5-inch digital instrument cluster
- 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- 8-speaker sound system
- Wireless phone charging
- Automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Keyless entry
On the safety front, the current model offers a comprehensive suite of features:
- Seven airbags
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill descent control
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- 360-degree camera
- ISOFIX child-seat anchorages
ADAS features like forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, auto emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control further enhance safety in the current variant. The base model might see some of these features omitted to optimize costs.
A More Competitive Market Landscape
The current BYD Atto 3 falls within a price range of Rs 33.99 lakh to Rs 34.49 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning itself as a cost-effective alternative to premium electric SUVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. However, it sits slightly above more mainstream options like the MG ZS EV and upcoming contenders like the Maruti eVX and Hyundai Creta EV.
The introduction of a more affordable base variant could significantly enhance BYD Atto 3’s competitiveness in the Indian electric SUV market. By offering a lower price point without compromising the core electric driving experience, BYD could attract a wider range of budget-conscious buyers seeking a feature-rich electric SUV.
Timeline and Availability
While the exact launch date remains unconfirmed, dealer sources suggest a potential July 10th unveiling for the new base variant. Interestingly, offline bookings for this variant have reportedly already begun at select dealerships, with a token amount of Rs 50,000 being accepted.
FAQs
Q: When was the BYD Atto 3 launched in India?
A: The BYD Atto 3 was launched in India in November 2022.
Q: What is the expected battery capacity of the new base variant of the BYD Atto 3?
A: The upcoming base variant will feature a smaller 50 kWh battery pack.
Q: What features can be expected in the new base variant of the BYD Atto 3?
A: The new variant may skip some creature comforts and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to maintain a lower price point.
Q: How does the BYD Atto 3 compare to its competitors in terms of pricing?
A: With its current pricing and upcoming variants, the BYD Atto 3 competes as a premium option against models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, while also being an alternative to more affordable EVs in India.
