BYD Atto 2 EV

Inside, the BYD Atto 2 EV features a black-and-beige cabin design that offers a sophisticated interior feel. It is fitted with premium creature comforts and high-tech features. Unlike its plug-in hybrid counterpart, the Atto 2 EV’s 12.8-inch infotainment display comes with a rotating function. Its infotainment offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth Handsfree, voice assistance, 4G connectivity, and BYD Cloud Service, among others, and is paired with a 6-speaker sound system. 

Meanwhile, the driver has access to an 8.8-inch LCD instrument display, a multi-control steering wheel wrapped in leather, and a crystal-themed gear selector, delivering a more premium driving experience. For added convenience and functionality, this EV is also equipped with eight bottle/cup holders (front: 4, rear: 4), a 12V power socket, and a total of four USB Type-A and Type-C ports (front: 2, rear: 2).

Furthermore, the front row is a nice place to be in, while the second row has ample headroom and legroom for three adult passengers. At the back, its trunk can also accommodate a family’s weekend grocery items and light luggage, offering a maximum capacity of up to 1,335 liters (with rear seats folded down). All things considered, the Atto 2 EV’s cabin offers an impressive mix of comfort, modern functionality, and premium styling.

In terms of dimensions, the BYD Atto 2 EV measures 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height. This EV also has a wheelbase of 2,620 mm and an unladen ground clearance of 150 mm. 

Appearance-wise, the BYD Atto 2 EV closely resembles its plug-in hybrid counterpart. It also features the same “Dragon” front-end styling, illuminated by angular LED headlamps with sleek LED daytime running lights (DRLs). Below, it gets two air vents that set it apart from the Atto 2 DM-i.

Moreover, it features a modern crossover SUV side profile that looks classy and robust at the same time, highlighted by its muscular body cladding. This EV gets semi-hidden door handles and power-folding and adjustable mirrors with integrated side turn lamps. The Atto 2 EV runs on a dynamic-looking set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

Trailing behind this EV at night is certainly an enjoyable experience, thanks to its futuristic-looking LED tail lamps connected by a slim light bar. Its subtle spoiler and bulky two-tone rear bumper add a sporty touch to its overall appearance on the road. And, for increased illumination and visibility, it gets an LED high-mount third brake lamp and a pair of rear fog lamps.

In terms of suspension, the BYD Atto 2 EV is equipped with MacPherson Struts at the front and a Torsion Beam at the rear. Its suspension setup offers a good balance of softness and firmness, with its higher curb weight contributing to a more planted ride through twists and turns. In the city, its suspension setup also does an excellent job of smoothing out the bumps and ruts it encounters.

The BYD Atto 2 EV is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor, producing 177 PS of maximum power and 290 Nm of maximum torque. Feeding its electric motor is a 45.1-kWh BYD Blade battery that offers a 380-km (NEDC) driving range and supports a DC fast charging time of 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes (0.4h). This EV features a Type 2 / CCS2 charger. Additionally, the Atto 2 EV is equipped with four selectable driving modes, Economy, Normal, Sport, and Snow, and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain.

That said, the Atto 2 EV’s electric powertrain delivers smooth, instantaneous power, allowing the driver to overtake slower vehicles on free-flowing highways with ease. It feels very peppy at high speeds, yet remains sensible and efficient in stop-and-go traffic. Its cabin also maintains a calm and peaceful atmosphere for all passengers, even during spirited cruises, thanks to its excellent sound insulation system.

In terms of safety, the BYD Atto 2 EV is equipped with a 360-degree-view camera with a see-through mode, cruise control, and a total of six parking sensors (front: 2, rear: 4). This EV comes with ventilated disc brakes at the front and regular disc brakes at the rear. Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, a brake override system, hill-descent control, electronic stability control, and a traction control system.

In my opinion, the BYD Atto 2 EV would make a great first EV for young professionals and smaller, budget-conscious families. It delivers an excellent balance of comfort, driving enjoyment, and everyday city usability, thanks to its spacious cabin and energy-efficient electric powertrain.