Significant Power Upgrades with Rear-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive Variants
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has announced a major upgrade to its popular Atto 3 model, introducing the Atto 3 Eco. According to Australian regulatory documents, the new model will be available in both Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) and All Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations, with power outputs of 230kW and 330kW respectively, a substantial increase from the current front-wheel-drive version's 150kW. The vehicle dimensions remain at 4.4 meters in length and 1.6 meters in height, though the weight has increased, with the RWD variant weighing 1,880 kg and the AWD variant exceeding 1,990 kg. Both models support a braked towing capacity of 750 kg.
In late July, BYD Australia sent emails to customers with the subject line 'Coming Soon – Meet the New ATTO 3 Evo,' inviting them to register their interest. The email highlighted the new model's 'faster charging technology, upgraded tech features, and a more premium interior,' though it did not disclose specific launch dates or pricing. Australian approval documents did not reveal battery specifications, but it is widely anticipated that the Atto 3 Eco will continue to use BYD's blade battery technology, potentially with faster charging speeds. Since its launch in 2022, the original Atto 3 has established a strong foothold in the Australian market, recognized as one of the most affordable ground-up electric SUVs available at the time.
