BYD Atto 3 Gets a Battery Boost: More Range, More Power

The BYD Atto 3 just leveled up. Known as the Yuan Plus in China, this electric SUV now packs a bigger battery and stronger motor. It's a quiet update, but one that could make long drives less of a worry. If you're eyeing an EV, this refresh might tip the scales.

Deeper Dive into the Battery Upgrade

Old Atto 3 models topped out at 60 kWh. They hit 430 to 510 km on a charge, using China's CLTC test. The new one jumps to 74.88 kWh. That's a Blade LFP battery, safe, long-lasting, and BYD's signature tech. Range climbs to 650 km. Imagine skipping that midday charge on a trip from Lahore to Islamabad.

Weight goes up, too. Curb mass hits 1,880 kg, about 200 kg more than before. It might feel a touch slower off the line, but the extra cells pay off in distance.

Power and Speed: What's New Under the Hood

The motor steps up to 230 kW. That's roughly 313 horsepower. Top speed? 180 km/h now. Current versions cap at lower outputs, so this feels punchier. Acceleration should sharpen, think quicker merge on the highway.

Charging stays quick. Reports point to 150 kW DC support. Fill from empty to full in under an hour at a good station. Home setups work too, but public spots will see the real gains.

Outside and Inside: Subtle Shifts

Looks don't change much. The body keeps its rounded shape, familiar to fans. But check the wheels: New double five-spoke grays add a fresh edge. And the charging port? It moved to the rear fender. Easier access when parked tight.

Inside, expect the usual comforts. A big screen runs the show. Seats hug you on bumps. Standard driver aids, like lane keep and auto braking, stick around. Optional upgrades include more cameras and radars for smarter cruising. BYD calls it "God's Eye" tech. It watches the road so you don't have to.

Price Tag: What to Expect

No word on costs yet. The current Atto 3 sells for 111,800 to 141,800 yuan in China. That's $15,700 to $19,900. In Pakistan, adding import duties and taxes it is higher. But if the update keeps pricing close, it stays a steal against pricier rivals.

Why This Matters for Drivers Like You

Bigger batteries chase away range fears. That 650 km means fewer stops. Less time at chargers, more time where it counts. Power bumps make it fun too, zip past trucks without sweat.

But it's not perfect. A heavier weight could nudge efficiency down on real roads. And with Pakistan's spotty grid, fast charging isn't everywhere yet. Still, as stations spread, this Atto 3 fits right in.

Global sales hit a million last June. It's no fluke. People want EVs that go far without fuss.

Road Ahead for the Atto 3

BYD files these updates fast. Expect the new model in showrooms soon, maybe early 2026. Test drives will tell if the range holds up outside lab tests.

Spot one on the road? Note the wheels. That's your sign of the upgrade. For now, it keeps the Atto 3 ahead in a crowded field. Solid choice for city hops or weekend escapes.

For more updates, visit DrivePK.com