Chinese EV giant BYD (Build Your Dreams) is set to increase its presence in the Indian market with the launch of its most affordable model to date, the Atto 2. Spotted recently on Indian roads in full camouflage, the Atto 2 represents a strategic foray by BYD into the rapidly expanding mainstream electric SUV segment, below its present Atto 3.
Rivals and Expected Price
To put things into perspective, the BYD Atto 3 costs between ₹25-₹34 lakh (ex-showroom, India). But the Atto 2 will face competition from the Hyundai Creta Electric (₹18-₹24.38 lakh), Tata Curvv EV (₹17.49- ₹21.99 lakh), Mahindra BE 6 (₹18.90-₹27.65 lakh) and MG ZS EV (₹17.99-₹20.50 lakh), along with the soon-to-launch Maruti Suzuki e Vitara. Its speculated price is between ₹18–22 lakh (ex-showroom).
Positioning and Market Relevance
Ever since its India launch with the e6 MPV, BYD has gradually introduced luxury electric models like the Atto 3 SUV, Seal sedan, eMax7 MPV (previously e6), and Sealion 7 SUV. The Atto 2 will occupy the entry level of BYD’s Indian lineup, aiming at a wider clientele looking for a compact, feature-packed electric SUV at a lower cost. In the world recognised by the names Yuan Up (China) and Yuan Pro (South America), the Atto 2 is slated to launch in India by the end of 2025.
Dimensions and Design Highlights
With a length of 4,310 mm, a width of 1,830 mm, a height of 1,675 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, the Atto 2 is a bit smaller than the Atto 3 but city-scarier-friendly while still providing ample cabin room. The boot room is approximately 400 litres, stretching to 1,340 litres when the rear seats are folded.
Visually, Atto 2 has BYD’s modern design language, tough body cladding, LED DRLs that look sleek, all-LED headlights, big alloy wheels, an LED connected tail-light bar, flap-type door handles, and a sporty rear spoiler. Its distinctive C-pillar design makes it stand out from competitors as well as from its bigger brother.
Interior and Features
The Atto 2’s cabin reflects BYD’s upmarket strategy. Some of its highlight features are a 15.6-inch rotatable infotainment screen (available in the Atto 3 and Seal as well), an 8.8-inch digital dashboard, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, leatherette trim, and high-end Level-2 ADAS features. Safety is boosted with several airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, and an electronic stability program.
Powertrain and Performance
The BYD Atto 2 is equipped with a 45.1 kWh battery pack, and a single front-mounted electric motor that churns out 175 bhp and 290 Nm. It delivers a 0–100 kmph time of 7.9 seconds, a top speed of 160 kmph and an NEDC-certified range of 380 km. DC fast charging of up to 65 kW enables 30–80 per cent charging within 28 minutes.
How It Stacks Up Against the Atto 3
Although both SUVs boast the company’s new-gen design philosophy and interior treatment, the Atto 2 is smaller, lighter, and will be more affordable than its larger sibling. The Atto 3 is offered with a larger battery (60.5 kWh), promises greater range (up to 521 km WLTP), and a more powerful motor. The Atto 2 is targeting those who value city usability, reduced cost of ownership, and slightly smaller size without compromising major tech and comfort aspects.
Spy Images Source: Rushlane.com
