BYD Atto 3 Evo: Faster Charging, Bigger Battery, Lower Price

BYD Atto 3 Evo Arrives with Major Upgrades, Lower Price

The BYD Atto 3 electric SUV has just been re-launched in the UK with a host of significant improvements, including faster charging, a larger battery, and a lower price tag. This updated model, dubbed the Atto 3 Evo, aims to build on the success of the original, which has sold over 10,600 units in the UK since its 2023 launch.

Subtle Exterior Tweaks, Big Interior Gains

While the exterior styling sees only minor, subtle changes – including a slightly more aggressive front end often described as a ‘dragon face’ and cleaner lines along the sides – the real story is inside and under the skin. The rear of the car now sports a cleaner design, with the ‘Build Your Dreams’ lettering replaced by a more discreet ‘BYD’ logo. However, the most significant practical improvement is the increased boot space. It now offers a generous 585 liters with the seats up, expanding to over 1,000 liters with the seats folded down. This is a substantial increase, making it much more practical for families and luggage.

A welcome addition is the new ‘frunk’ – a front trunk located under the bonnet. This provides a dedicated, protected space for charging cables, keeping them separate from the main cabin and preventing them from getting dirty. This feature, which was missing on the original Atto 3, is a practical solution that many electric car owners will appreciate.

A Smarter, More Convenient Interior

Inside, the Atto 3 Evo retains its distinctive, somewhat quirky design but introduces several key upgrades. The wireless phone charger now features a cooling function, preventing your phone from overheating during charging, especially useful in warmer climates. The gear selector has been moved from the center console to a stalk behind the steering wheel, a change that simplifies operation and reduces accidental inputs.

The infotainment system’s central touchscreen remains impressive, offering quick and responsive performance. It’s complemented by a smaller digital driver’s display that clearly shows crucial information like speed and tire pressure. Some higher trims will also feature a head-up display and a panoramic sunroof, though the tested model did not include these options. Storage solutions are plentiful, including the unique ‘guitar string’ pockets on the doors, which offer a creative way to store items.

Performance and Charging: The 800V Revolution

The biggest leap forward for the Atto 3 Evo is its new electric architecture. While the previous model used a 400V system, the Evo adopts an 800V system. This is a significant upgrade, shared with high-performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan, and it enables dramatically faster charging speeds. Dependent on the charger’s capability, the Atto 3 Evo can charge from 10% to 80% in a matter of minutes, transforming the experience of long journeys where charging stops are needed.

The battery has also been enlarged from around 60.4 kWh to a more substantial 74.8 kWh. This larger battery, achieved without increasing weight or size due to improved energy density, provides a longer driving range. While specific range figures weren’t detailed, the increase in battery capacity suggests a significant improvement over the previous model’s adequate range.

Value Proposition and BYD’s Expertise

BYD, a company with a long history in battery technology since 2009, is a major player in the EV world. Their LFP ‘Blade’ batteries are known for their safety, durability, and lack of cobalt. The Atto 3 Evo benefits from this expertise, offering a battery with an impressive warranty: 6 years or 100,000 miles for the car, and 8 years or 150,000 miles for the battery. Engineers suggest these batteries can last for much longer, potentially over a million miles with only minor range degradation.

Despite the upgrades, the Atto 3 Evo is priced around £700 cheaper than the outgoing model. With prices ranging from approximately £37,000 to £42,000, it offers compelling value. The combination of a larger battery, faster charging, increased practicality, and a strong warranty makes it a very attractive proposition in the electric SUV market.

Verdict: A Smarter, More Capable EV

The BYD Atto 3 Evo is more than just a facelift; it’s a substantial upgrade that addresses key areas of improvement. The enhanced practicality, particularly the larger boot and frunk, coupled with the groundbreaking 800V charging technology, positions it as a highly competitive option. For buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and technologically advanced electric SUV that offers excellent value for money, the BYD Atto 3 Evo is definitely worth considering.

Source: The £30k EV With 800V Charging? The BYD Atto 3 Evo! (YouTube)