The Chinese automaker BYD has launched the updated Atto 3 Evo in the United Kingdom, offering a significant performance upgrade over its predecessor. Priced starting at just under £39,000, the new model boasts up to 442bhp, making it surprisingly competitive against established EV brands and even some sports cars. This release highlights a broader trend: Chinese EV manufacturers are rapidly increasing their market share by offering high-spec vehicles at competitive prices.
Performance and Range
The entry-level Design trim, priced under £39,000, features a single rear motor producing 309bhp and a 74.8kWh battery. This provides a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds and a WLTP range of 316 miles —an improvement of 55 miles over the previous Atto 3. The Excellence trim, at £42,730, adds a front motor, boosting total output to 442bhp and cutting the sprint time to just 3.9 seconds —faster than a Ferrari F430.
However, increased power does slightly reduce range; the Excellence model offers 292 miles on a single charge. The new battery pack uses cell-to-body construction for greater rigidity, and BYD has upgraded the charging system to an 800V architecture, doubling maximum charging speed to 220kW. This enables a 10-80% charge in around 25 minutes.
Technology and Interior
All Atto 3 Evo models now feature an 8.8-inch instrument cluster and a massive 15.6-inch touchscreen running Google integration, including Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. Standard features include wireless phone charging, a 360-degree camera, ambient lighting, and heated leather front seats. The Excellence trim adds a head-up display, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Notably, the rotating touchscreen found in the original Atto 3 has been removed in favor of a fixed landscape orientation. Despite this, the interior has been refined with a new steering wheel and column-mounted shifter. The boot capacity has increased to 490 liters, surpassing rivals like the Skoda Elroq, and a front trunk (“frunk”) adds another 95 liters of storage.
Design and Practicality
Exterior styling has been subtly updated with a new front bumper, simplified window graphics, and revised rear lights. The increased performance also allows for a higher braked trailer rating of 1,500kg.
The Atto 3 Evo demonstrates that Chinese EV manufacturers are no longer just offering budget options. They are now competing directly with established brands in terms of performance, range, and features.
The BYD Atto 3 Evo represents a compelling option for EV buyers seeking performance and value. Its combination of power, range, and technology at a competitive price point positions it as a serious contender in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
