BYD’s Aussie assault continues

BYD’s Australian assault continues with two more models set to launch here, one before the end of the year.

The flagship Sealion 8 and Atto 2 SUVs will join a lineup that currently includes the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, Sealion 6, Shark 6 and Sealion 7.

Tthe Atto 2, a small, fully electric SUV, is set to arrive in the fourth quarter of this year and promises to be a game-changer for Australian motorists, says BYD.

Available from launch in two grades – Essential and Premium – the Atto 2 is powered by a 51.13 kWh Blade battery and a single permanent magnet synchronous motor.

Both specs boast 130kW and 290Nm, with drive being sent to the front wheels through BYD’s 8-in-1 powertrain, which integrates the motor, reducer, motor controller, on-board charger, DC-DC converter, high-voltage distribution unit (PDU), battery management system (BMS), and vehicle control unit (VCU).

This class-leading powertrain not only greatly reduces NVH levels for a peerless driving experience, but also enhances vehicle reliability.

Atto 2’s compact yet powerful silhouette is complemented by flush door handles and a sleek floating roofline replete with panoramic sunroof, while the rear of the SUV ups the aesthetic ante with a full-width light bar and a sporty rear spoiler.

Features include an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, synthetic leather seats, and BYD’s celebrated Intelligent Rotating touch infotainment screen (Dynamic: 10.1-inch; Premium: 12.8-inch).

Like the rest of BYD’s model range, the Atto 2 offers a full suite of safety features, including ADAS, six airbags, and, depending on the spec, a reversing or 360 degree surround-view camera system.

The Atto 2 also offers additional modern conveniences, such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, NFC digital key passes, and adaptive cruise control.

“With its exciting looks, superlative technology, and eminent versatility, the Atto 2 promises to be a game-changer in the small-size SUV segment,” BYD’s Wing You said.

“The Atto family of vehicles is expanding in Australia, and we’re confident this latest addition will be well received by local buyers.”

Atto 2

Set to arrive in the first quarter of 2026, Sealion 8 is a plug-in hybrid seven seater.

The full-size SUV represents the latest addition to BYD’s growing family of Sealion SUVs.

The groundbreaking New Energy Vehicle promises to be a revelation in the segment, offering superlative technology and performance while further demonstrating BYD’s resolute commitment to offering local consumers exceptional value.

The DM-i variant of the SEALION 8 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110kW and 220Nm, and a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor on the front axle producing 200kW and 315Nm.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 8.6 seconds.

The range-topping DM-p variant employs the same 110kW/220Nm, 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.

However, it also uses a 200kW and 315Nm permanent magnet synchronous electric motor on the front axle and a 141kW/360Nm permanent magnet synchronous electric motor on the rear axle.

East Anglia in a windy Westfield Clubbie

This translates to a 0-100km/h time of just 4.9 seconds, making the all-wheel-drive Sealion 8 DM-p one of the fastest-accelerating seven-seater SUVs on the market at any price point.

Sealion 8’s side profile with a swooping roofline hints at its performance credentials, while at the rear, a wraparound, full-length LED tail light evolves the design language of its EV sibling, the Sealion 7.

Inside, all seven occupants will be treated to an opulent and thoughtfully designed cabin that features premium materials and accents, brilliant technology, and, depending on the variant, lavish amenities such as heated and cooled massaging seats for the first and second rows (DM-p).

“We know the desire is here for a proper full-size, seven-seater PHEV SUV,” Wing You said.

“It’s going to be a flagship model for us, and, in classic BYD fashion, it will exceed the consumers’ expectations for tech, luxury, and value.”