How’s this for a great plot twist? At the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), BYD Cars Philippines, under ACMobility previewed the Atto 2 EV sub-compact SUV. At the time, they promised retail sales to commence by the second half of 2026. Now that we’re approaching that time frame, it’s been revealed that they’ll be offering it in both pure electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.
Previously, BYD Cars Philippines got DOE certification for two variants of the Atto 2 EV—the Atto 2 Dynamic and the Atto 2 Premium. However, given the prevailing customer shift to PHEV, it looks like they’ll be offering it solely in the Premium variant instead.
Based on new government documents filed by ACMobility, the Atto 2 EV Premium is powered by a front-mounted, front-driven PMSM motor putting out 177 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque. Its 45.1-kWh LFP battery offers up to 380 kilometers of range (NEDC). It can also be charged via a CCS Type 2 plug in both AC (7 kW maximum rate) or DC (65 kW maximum rate).
The Atto 2 EV Premium comes with LED headlights, variable intermittent wipers, and power folding sideview mirrors. Inside, it has leather seating, a 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a 12.8-inch rotating center touchscreen, and a 6-speaker system.
Surprisingly, the Atto 2 EV is now joined not by one, but two variants of the Atto 2 DM-i as well. Both the Atto 2 DM-i Dynamic and Atto 2 DM-i Premium are mechanically the same, powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder and electric motor combo putting out 165 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. With a 7.9-kWh LFP battery, it offers 45 kilometers of all-electric range, going up to 1,045 kilometers in conjunction with its 45-liter tank.
Based on its spec sheet, the Atto 2 DM-i is slightly longer (+20 mm) and rides +1 mm taller than the EV version. That said, exterior features are the same except that the Atto 2 DM-i Premium runs on larger wheels (215/60R17 versus 215/65R16 on the EV Premium and DM-i Dynamic).
Inside, the Atto 2 DM-i has less luxury features pointing to its entry-level positioning. It foregoes the leather seats and power adjustment for the driver’s seat. The DM-i also loses the rotating screen altogether for a fixed on measuring 10.1 inches on the Dynamic and 12.8 inches on the Premium.
Regardless of powertrain, the Atto 2 is well-kitted in terms of safety with six airbags (four on the Dynamic), ABS with EBD, stability control, hill hold control, and tire pressure monitors. The Premium variants add front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera (versus rear parking sensors and a rear camera on the Dynamic). The Atto 2 DM-i Premium is the only one to get the DiPilot ADAS system.
Given the specs, it’s very likely that BYD Cars Philippines is targeting the sub-compact SUV segment with the Atto 2. If that’s the case, expect pricing to be around the P 1.2-million mark for the EV, and likely around P 1-million for the entry-level DM-i variant, bridging the Seal 5 DM-i (P 948,000 to P 1,198,000) and the Sealion 5 DM-i (P 1,248,000).
Coding exemption will be its biggest advantage vs competitors
ReplyDeleteNissan Kicks competitor.
ReplyDeleteBYD is trying to cater to as many customers in this popular size class/segment. From an entry-level point-of-view, there will now be at least a more practical size and range option for those who find the Seagull too small, low and not quite a good value.
ReplyDeleteHopefully they will launch the Atto 2 dmi in PH market
ReplyDelete