BYD is broadening its premium electric vehicle range with the ATTO 8, a large SUV aimed at families who need space, long-range capability, and advanced technology. This new model marks a significant development in the company’s European plans, positioning it above smaller models like the ATTO 3 and SEALION 7.
Dimensions of the ATTO 8 are 5,040 mm long 1 996 mm wide and 1,760 mm tall a full-size SUV footprint. The seven-seater is designed to appeal to larger families with contemporary exteriors and a tech-infused cabin designed to take on existing EV SUVs.
BYD says the Design RWD version has a rear-mounted electric motor generating 340kW (or about 462 horsepower), 365Nm of torque. The company estimates the vehicle can go from zero to 100 km/h in eight seconds and has a combined WLTP driving range of up to 653 kilometres.
For even better all-weather performance, the Excellence AWD variant is equipped with the front electric motor on top of the rear electric motor. Total output is 570 kW (around 775 PS) and 775 Nm of torque, enabling the Excellence AWD to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The WLTP range of the Excellence AWD is claimed at 602 km.
Both electric versions get a 115 kWh second-generation Blade Battery. Range: range is dependent on the particular version, driving style terrain climate, road conditions and other factors, while the WLTP testing procedure has been used to calculate official range.
The highlight of the vehicle’s technology is the BYD FLASH Charging, which debuts on the ATTO 8 in Europe. BYD claims that the 8 battery can be loaded from 10 to 70 percent in about five minutes, reaching 97 percent in just over nine minutes, if the loading conditions are met.
It is compatible with BYD’s Blade Battery, the car maker’s second-generation battery cell tech, and high-power charging systems. (Image: BYD) BYD also claims that charging time will be extended by only three minutes at minus 30 degrees celsius, although this can vary a lot given the conditions and the chargers used.
These charging claims could help address one of the major concerns among potential electric vehicle buyers: the time required to recharge during long journeys. Still, the advertised speeds require compatible FLASH chargers, so drivers cannot expect the same performance from every public charging station.
On the inside, the ATTO 8 features a combination of digital read-outs and comfort-oriented equipment. The instrument console has a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, the infotainment screen is a 15.6-inch touch screen and the vehicle gets a large head-up display with Google features.
Heated and ventilated seats with massage are available in the first two rows, and three-zone automatic climate control offers better comfort to every passenger in the cabin. An expansive panoramic glass roof completes the airy atmosphere.
Suitability also remains key. When all the three rows are loaded, the boot still gives a space of 270 litres and can be increased to 1,960 litres with the rear seats folded down. There is also a space of 136 litres at the front for extra storage.
These functionalities make ATTO 8 not just a performance electric SUV. It is built for daily usability, equipped with high-end features, and designed for long-distance traveling.