3 big reasons to consider the BYD Atto 2 BEV

BYD Cars Philippines rolled out the Atto 2 several days ago, and apart from its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) DM-i variant, it is also offered as a battery electric vehicle (BEV). 

Notably, the electric vehicle version of the said crossover carries a slight premium over the PHEV model. Specifically, it has a suggested retail price of P1.338 million for its sole Premium trim. Comparatively, the DM-i's equivalent Premium version has a suggested retail price of P1.258 million. 

On that note, why should one buy the BEV version? Does it have any particular strong points that make it a car worth its price? Let's find out here. 

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Peppy performance, considerable range

For its powertrain, the Atto 2's BEV version uses a single permanent magnet motor that is linked to a 45.1 kilowatt-hour Blade Battery. At maximum, this system can generate up to 174 horsepower and 290 Newton-meters of torque. 

On that note, it doesn't have the same amount of torque as the DM-i version. Otherwise, the difference is marginal. It does have 12 more horsepower, though, and for a vehicle that weighs 1,550 kilograms (curb weight), that amount of oomph can translate to oodles of fun on backroads. 

Do be aware, though, that the model is a subcompact crossover and its curb weight is still heavy for the class. Then again, this is an EV, and that means instant torque, a characteristic that means lighting-quick overtaking and easy merging on particularly fast stretches of highway. 

Apart from its relatively peppy output figures, the small EV boasts a New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) - indicated range of 380 kilometers. This is more than enough for in-city driving and the occasional out-of-town trip. 

Other noteworthy EV-related components of the Atto 2 include a regenerative braking system, a vehicle-to-load function, and a drive mode selector (economy, normal, sport, snow). 

When it comes to topping up its batteries, the model uses direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) ports. When topping up with its DC port, the car can increase its state-of-charge from 10-80 percent in just 24 minutes. 

Loads of amenities, safety gear

Another reason to buy the BYD Atto 2 BEV is its sheer amount of amenities despite its relatively accessible price and its compact size. 

For starters, the model has a five-seater layout equipped with leather upholstery, a PM 2.5-filtered automatic climate control system, a 60:40 split-fold rear passenger seat, and plenty of soft-touch panels spread all around the cabin. 

In terms of driving amenities, the vehicle has a power-adjustable driver's seat, an 8.8-inch digital gauge cluster, a voice assistant, a keyless entry system, a push-to-start button, a digital key (BYD) app, a tilt and telescopic steering column, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. 

Handling the crossover's on-board entertainment and navigation, meanwhile, is a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system that's connected to a six-piece speaker system. 

The aforementioned display has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 4G connectivity, over-the-air updating capabilities, and Handsfree calling functionality. 

On the safety side of things, the BYD Atto 2 BEV is also well-kitted out. This, of course, will be a boon to anyone driving within the chaotic streets of Philippine roads. 

The model's passive kit consists of dual front airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, traction control, electronic stability control, anti-lock braking, hill-descent control, a brake override system, an anti-theft system, tire-pressure monitoring, and a total of six sensors (front and rear). 

These are supported by a 360-degree view camera with a see-through mode and a cruise control system. 

Attractive SUV-like design

Contrary to most EV models in the Philippine market right now, the BYD Atto 2 EV looks like a proper sport utility vehicle (SUV). For the record, the nameplate is a crossover, but its stance belies a toughness that is sure to attract plenty of admiring eyes. 

Specifically, the model's front clip is the latest evolution of the brand's Dragon Face design. It still has a closed-off grille, but the familiar Dragon Whisker Chrome Bar flanked by sharply hewn LED headlamps is there. 

From the side sections, one can see that the nameplate has a tall window line. This goes together with black plastic claddings wrapping all around its lower portions. Its rear end, meanwhile, comes with an LED light strip and a prominent, shapely rear bumper-and-diffuser combo. 

For reference, here are the dimensions of the BYD Atto 2 BEV: 

Length (in millimeters)	4,330
Width (in mm)	1,830
Height (in mm)	1,675
Wheelbase length (in mm)	2,620
Ground clearance (in mm)	150

Other noteworthy exterior equipment of the BYD Atto 2 BEV includes automatic functionality for the headlamps, rear fog lamps, power-folding/adjustable side mirrors with heating, and rear wipers. 

Final thoughts 

There are plenty of reasons to buy the BYD Atto 2 BEV other than what was mentioned above. 

Considering its price, it is one of the most affordable ways to get into BYD-made EVs without having to resort to the smaller Seagull, which is a subcompact city hatchback.

Sure, the Seagull is excellent in its own right, but its interior space and set of on-board features cannot compare with the all-new Atto 2 BEV. 

On the one hand, BYD Cars Philippines' signature package of warranties will always be a strong point for discerning buyers. For the unaware, this consists of a six-year (or 160,000-km) bumper-to-bumper warranty, an eight-year (or 160,000-km) Blade Battery warranty, and an eight-year powertrain warranty. These can alleviate most, if not all, ownership woes and will help maintain the reliability of the car for years on end. 

So, do you like what you see in the BYD Atto 2 BEV? If you do, do not hesitate to visit the nearest BYD dealership and ask for a test drive. 

Also read:

Check out the updated BYD Seal 5 DM-i’s strengths, weaknesses

4 biggest reasons to consider the BYD Atto 2 DM-i

All-electric crossover duel: Jaecoo J5 EV vs. BYD Atto 3

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