Chinese electric car major BYD has unveiled the next-generation BYD Atto 3 at Auto China 2026 (Beijing Auto Show). It supports BYD’s ‘flash charging’ and has a range of 630km per charge.
The generational upgrade comes just months after the updated Atto 3 Evo debuted in China. China launch is expected later this year. BYD sells the Atto 3 in India as a CBU import, and its most affordable product. The new model could make it to our shores sometime in the future.
The new-generation Atto 3 has grown significantly in size. It now measures 4,665 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height. The electric SUV has a wheelbase of 2770mm. Compared to the model that’s already on sale in India, it is 210mm longer, 20 mm wider, and 60 mm taller. Clearly, the bump in overall length isn’t small. Even the wheelbase has gone up by 50 mm.
The revisions in length and wheelbase are expected to bring about notable improvements in cabin experience- especially in leg room offered. Plus, these would also improve ride stability and handling. And finally, its revised proportions ensure that the new Atto 3 has a stronger road presence than before.
BYD has taken an evolutionary approach with the new Atto 3’s design. It retains its signature closed-off grille, sleek headlamps, and full-width rear lightbar. Areas like the front bumper, bonnet, and those near the wheel arches have been redesigned. The bonnet now looks more sculpted, and there are stronger character lines around the wheel arches.
Another noticeable change is in the roofline. It is now flatter and the tailgate feels more upright. The model that’s sold in India, for perspective, has a coupe-like design to its roofline. The rear lightbar has a more squared-off look on the new-generation e-SUV. Overall, the new model has a more conventional design than before.
The cabin design and layout at large, remain familiar. The new-generation Atto 3 continues to offer a large central touchscreen that can be used to control a slew of vehicle functions and infotainment. This screen is positioned above the AC vents. The new Atto 3 also has a redesigned digital instrument cluster.
You can also see smarter storage provisions on the new model. It has an open cubby for the front passenger and a few other spaces.
Other features include a 256-colour ambient lighting, powered front seats with a massage function, a panoramic glass roof, a powered ottoman for the front passenger, a 16-speaker audio system, and a powered tailgate. ADAS features are now LiDAR-based and that improves safety significantly.
The new-generation Atto 3 makes a transition to a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration. It is available with two battery options- 57.5 kWh and 68.5 kWh. The smaller battery version comes with a 272hp electric motor and is claimed to deliver a CLTC range of 540km per charge.
The bigger battery version has a much higher range- 630 km, and comes with a 327hp electric motor. These mark a substantial improvement over the outgoing model.
The biggest highlight of the new Atto 3 is its flash charging technology. The electric SUV can be charged from 10 to 97 percent in just 9 minutes, under ideal conditions. If these claims hold true in real-world conditions, it could significantly reduce one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption- charging time.