The BYD Atto 3 is a vehicle that has captured the attention of many electric vehicle enthusiasts. Especially with its promise of a 345 km range per charge. But how accurate is this figure in real-world conditions? In this blog, we’ll be exploring everything about this vehicle from its performance to its unique features and range.
Pricing & Range
So, let’s start with the pricing and range. The BYD Atto 3 is priced at approximately NZD 52,000 after rebates, making it a competitive option in the electric vehicle market. The official WLTP range is 345 km, but how realistic is this? To answer this, we put the vehicle to the test by driving it until it ran out of charge.
It’s worth noting that the BYD Atto 3 has become a favorite among many for its overall value. It’s comfortable, efficient, and offers a great ride quality. It’s consistently ranked among the top three recommendations for those inquiring about electric vehicles. The higher seat position compared to competitors like the Tesla Model 3 makes it easier to get in and out, especially for those who may have mobility concerns.
Performance and Battery Specs
The BYD Atto 3 has a slightly smaller battery than its long-range counterpart. It still uses lithium iron phosphate battery. This blade battery design is both cost-effective and efficient, providing good performance while being easier to cool and manage.
When considering the WLTP range, it’s advisable to take around 15% off the official figure for real-world driving in New Zealand. This brings the expected range closer to 293 km. However, our test aimed to see if we could achieve a realistic range close to this figure.
Technology and Gadgets
One of the standout features of the Atto 3 is its ability to receive over-the-air software updates. This has allowed for improvements in various systems, including the power steering and air conditioning. The gasometer, which indicates the remaining range, has also become more dynamic and accurate.
Moreover, the BYD Atto 3 now supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with exciting features like Spotify integration. Rumors suggest that Netflix and even Tinder may be coming to the vehicle, making it a tech-savvy option for modern drivers.
Driving Experience
Throughout the test, I experienced a mix of city driving and highway conditions. The Atto 3 handled both well, providing a comfortable ride even in Auckland traffic. However, highway driving tends to consume more battery, which is crucial to consider when assessing range. I made sure to use features like the heater and air conditioning, which are common in everyday driving. This made the test more realistic, as most drivers will use these features regularly.
Efficiency and Charging
Once at the rapid charger, the BYD Atto 3 began charging efficiently. Although, it is not the fastest in the market. It’s essential to consider that while the charging speed peaks at 70 kW for the standard range model, it still provides better performance for most users.
After the car died, I utilized the V2L feature again to charge my other vehicle and allowing me to safely reach a nearby charging station. This demonstrates the practicality of having such a feature in emergencies. While I wouldn’t recommend relying on this as a primary charging solution, it certainly came in handy during our test.
Conclusion
The BYD Atto 3 has proven itself as a reliable, efficient and feature packed electric vehicle on the market. With its impressive range and performance. It remains one of the top recommendations for Kiwi families looking to transition to electric. While it may not be the fastest charging EV on the market, its overall value and features make it a worthy contender.
As electric vehicles continue to evolve, the BYD Atto 3 stands out for its practicality and innovative features. That makes it a strong option for those seeking an environmentally friendly vehicle without sacrificing comfort or technology.
Hi. I’m Sahariar Ahmed. I’m passionate about Technology, Automobile, and Electric Vehicle (EV). I’ve done my graduation in Mechanical Engineering from Daffodil International University. I love content writing and exploring tech products.
