Atto 1 and Atto 2 EV
BYD Australia has officially announced the pricing and specifications for its upcoming Atto 1 electric city car and Atto 2 electric subcompact crossover SUV, with both models expected to arrive in Australia next summer.
Founded in early 1995, the Chinese high-tech company has grown over the past three decades to operate 30 industrial facilities across six continents, positioning itself as a global leader in electronics, automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, and rail transit.
In Australia, BYD already offers a diverse lineup of new energy vehicles, including electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models such as the Dolphin, Seal, Atto 3, Shark 6, Sealion 6, and 7.
Next summer, the range will expand with the addition of the Atto 1 and Atto 2 models. Internationally known under various names, the BYD Dolphin Mini in Latin America, the Dolphin Surf in Europe, and the Seagull in China, the Atto 1 is a compact all-electric city car, the smallest in BYD’s portfolio. It first entered production in spring 2023.
In Australia, the Atto 1 will be offered in two variants: Essential and Premium. These models will feature different battery capacities: 30 kWh and 43.2 kWh, respectively. According to BYD, the Atto 1 is “perfect for urban settings with fast-charging capability, with DC charging from 10%–80% in approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for city dwellers and first-time EV buyers.”
Pricing for the BYD Atto 1 will start at AUD 23,990 (plus on-road costs), equivalent to roughly USD 16,000. Meanwhile, the Atto 2 will begin at AUD 31,990 (plus on-road costs), or just over USD 21,000.
Known as the BYD Yuan Up in China since its production launch in March 2024, and the Yuan Pro in Latin America, the Atto 2 is an electric subcompact crossover SUV that “offers a blend of performance, space, and efficiency, with DC charging from 10%-80% in approximately 39 minutes.”
In the Australian market, the Atto 2 will be sold in Dynamic and Premium variants, both equipped with a 51.3 kWh battery. “The two models represent the next step in BYD’s vision for accessible, premium electric mobility for Australian drivers.
Each model reflects our commitment to combining technology, design, and efficiency, tailored for local drivers and conditions, reflecting BYD’s commitment to making EV ownership attainable for all Australians,” said Stephen Collins, BYD Australia’s Chief Operating Officer.
Both new models will feature BYD’s signature Blade battery technology. Additionally, the company has conducted extensive local testing and development for suspension tuning and ADAS integration to ensure the vehicles meet Australian driving conditions.
The company has described this launch as “one of the first times electric vehicles have reached true price parity, and in some cases, undercut their petrol-powered competitors.” Whether that proves true remains to be seen, but the new Atto lineup may mark a turning point for affordable electric mobility in Australia.
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