BYD ATTO 2

The ATTO 2 suits city driving with the occasional family trip. It is about 4.3 metres long, which BYD says gives it easy manoeuvrability and a small turning radius, yet the cabin gives front and rear passengers generous headroom and legroom. BYD's target figures are up to 259 miles (about 417 km) of WLTP combined range, 0 to 62 mph in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 96 mph. All of these are target specifications under controlled conditions, and final specifications are pending GB type approval.

Battery, powertrain and range

Power comes from BYD's Blade Battery, which sits inside the body as a structural part through cell-to-body construction. BYD says this raises torsional stiffness by 32 percent. The powertrain merges eight components into one unit, and a heat pump is standard to protect range in cold weather. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) output turns the car into a mobile power source for camping gear, a games console or small appliances.

Space and cabin

The boot holds 400 litres and grows to 1,340 litres when the rear seats are folded. The seats are vegan leather with electric adjustment and heating, and the raised driving position helps visibility in traffic. A panoramic roof, ambient lighting and wireless phone charging complete the cabin, and a rotatable screen handles navigation, apps and media. The car is built on e-Platform 3.0, and BYD says its compact battery pack frees up room.

Connectivity and safety

A 4G connection provides navigation as standard, with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and voice control. Over-the-air updates keep the software current. NFC keyless entry works with a card or a phone, and the climate system can be started by remote control before a journey. An advanced driver-assistance system comes as standard. A safety rating is not yet recorded for the UK car.

Key facts

• Body: compact electric SUV, about 4.3 m long
• Range: up to 259 miles (about 417 km, WLTP combined, target figure)
• Performance: 0 to 62 mph in 7.7 seconds, 96 mph maximum (target figures)
• Boot: 400 litres, 1,340 litres with the seats folded
• Extras: heat pump standard, V2L output