BYD's upgraded Atto 3 Evo electric SUV features 800V architecture for 220kW charging, larger 74.8kWh LFP battery, and new RWD/AWD options starting at €44,990.
The BYD Atto 3 Evo represents a significant evolution of the popular electric SUV, bringing substantial upgrades in charging speed, range, and powertrain options while maintaining the same compact dimensions that made the original model appealing to European buyers.
800-Volt Architecture Enables Lightning-Fast Charging
One of the most notable improvements in the Atto 3 Evo is the switch to an 800-volt electrical architecture. This higher voltage system allows for much faster charging rates compared to the previous 400-volt setup. BYD claims that charging from 10 to 80 percent can be completed in just 25 minutes when using a compatible DC fast charger capable of delivering up to 220 kW.
To put this in perspective, the 2023 Atto 3 was limited to 88 kW charging, making the Evo's charging capability more than 2.5 times faster. This improvement addresses one of the main concerns for EV adoption - charging time - and brings the Atto 3 Evo closer to the charging speeds offered by premium electric vehicles like the Porsche Taycan and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Larger Battery Without Compromising Safety
Despite switching to a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, which typically offers lower energy density than nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) alternatives, BYD has managed to increase the total capacity to 74.8 kWh from the previous 60 kWh. This represents a 24.7% increase in energy storage while maintaining the safety benefits and longevity associated with LFP chemistry.
The company achieves this through its innovative Cell-to-Body technology, which integrates the battery pack more directly into the vehicle's structure. This not only saves weight but also improves crash safety by creating a more rigid passenger cell.
New Powertrain Options
The Atto 3 Evo introduces more powertrain choices than its predecessor. Buyers can now choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations:
- Design (RWD): 230 kW (308 horsepower) with 280 lb-ft of torque
- Excellence (AWD): 330 kW (442 horsepower) with 413 lb-ft of torque
The AWD Excellence model combines both front and rear motors to deliver significantly more power and torque than the base model, making it suitable for performance-oriented drivers or those who frequently encounter challenging weather conditions.
Pricing and Availability
BYD has positioned the Atto 3 Evo competitively in the European market:
- Base Design trim: €44,990
- Excellence AWD trim: €50,990
Both versions are available to order now, with first deliveries expected this spring. This pricing strategy maintains the Atto 3's position as an accessible electric SUV option while reflecting the substantial technical upgrades.
Market Context
The Atto 3 Evo enters a competitive segment of the European electric SUV market, going up against established players like the Volkswagen ID.4, Kia Niro EV, and Hyundai Kona Electric. The combination of faster charging, increased range, and multiple powertrain options gives BYD a strong value proposition, particularly for buyers prioritizing charging speed and performance.
The switch to 800-volt architecture also future-proofs the vehicle as more high-power charging infrastructure becomes available across Europe. This positions the Atto 3 Evo well for the growing number of EV owners who take longer trips and need reliable, fast charging capabilities.
The BYD Atto 3 Evo demonstrates how quickly electric vehicle technology is advancing, with improvements in charging speed, battery capacity, and performance becoming available even in the compact SUV segment. For buyers considering an electric SUV in 2026, the Atto 3 Evo offers compelling specifications at a competitive price point.
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