BYD Keeping up the momentum: the ATTO 2 has arrived, the new 100% electric SUV that aims to conquer the city

Keep the momentum going. The title of that catchy song from a few years ago could well apply to the strategy BYD is following in its landing in Europe. Only a few weeks ago we got behind the wheel of its seventh model in our market, the BYD Sealion 7, (eight if, as the brand does, we count the Seal U DM-i, the plug-in hybrid version of the Seal U, as a separate model), and now the new BYD Atto 2 is announced at the Brussels Motor Show, which will go on sale as soon as next February.

And where does the Atto 2 fit in BYD’s range? Well, as its name suggests, just below the Atto 3. It is a B-segment SUV which, among 100% electric models, will compete with rivals such as the Kia EV3 (my current favourite, until I drive the new Atto 2), the MG ZS, the Hyundai Kona Electric, the Opel Frontera… It is true that BYD already has another electric city car, and a very interesting one: the Dolphin. But the Atto 3 is bigger… and has SUV bodywork.

Compact in size, great in quality and versatility

The Atto 2’s bodywork measures 4.31 metres long, 1.83 metres wide and 1.67 metres high, so it is about 14 cm shorter and 4.5 cm narrower than the Atto 3, dimensions much more suited to its essentially urban concept. But its generous 2.62-metre wheelbase and a very well-used interior, together with a 400-litre boot (up to 1,340 with the rear seats folded) could make the Atto 2 a car you can take well beyond the city.

At least in the future versions with the “large” battery. Because at launch the Atto 2 arrives with a 130 kW (177 CV) front-mounted motor and a 45.1 kWh battery, with which a range of 312 km is claimed. A second option with a larger battery will follow later. For now, no further details are revealed about performance, the commercial range or prices of this new model, although they will not be long in becoming official.

Otherwise, the Atto 2 has an attractive design highlighted by the wheel-arch and sill protections, as well as the rear pillar with an element in body colour that creates a sought-after “floating roof” effect. The standard colour is grey, but green, white and black will be offered as alternative options. Inside, with simple and very carefully finished lines, the brand’s signature rotating screen is not missing. Like all the brand’s models, the battery is the “Blade Battery” developed by BYD, and for the first time in a BYD model of this segment the architecture they call Cell to Body is also used, which integrates the battery into the chassis and is largely responsible for the good use of interior space, as well as contributing to achieving high bodyshell rigidity.

BYD Atto 2 – Image gallery

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverBYD Atto 25 versions · from 28,200 €