Chinese automaker BYD has plans to launch a new crossover in South Africa badged the Atto 2.
TopAuto recently discovered a new trademark application for the BYD Atto 3 Up submitted to the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission on 1 August 2024, which is currently pending approval.
We duly contacted the local arm of BYD to enquire whether this is a new product for our market or if the trademark is merely routine.
“The Atto 3 Up you have referenced to; we plan to name it ” Atto 2″ – a pure-electric small SUV – should we launch it here in South Africa,” the company said.
“We do plan to bring Atto 2 to South Africa, but nothing has been confirmed yet.”
BYD additionally revealed that the newcomer will be positioned between the Atto 3 SUV and the Dolphin hatchback.
This gives the small crossover a ballpark price range of between R539,900 and R768,000, should it go on sale domestically.
Apart from the Atto 2, BYD is planning a big model offensive for the South African market over the coming years.
Fans of the Chinese brand can expect to see the new Dolphin Mini hatchback, the Shark bakkie, the Sealion 6 crossover, and the Seal 7 DM-i sedan on our roads within the next year or so.
Additionally, BYD luxury sub-brand Denza also looks to be preparing for a local rollout based on recent trademark documents.
What to expect
The Atto 2 is already on sale in Latin America under the moniker Yuan Pro.
In Brazil specifically, the electric crossover sports a single e-motor that produces 130kW and 290Nm, enough to get it to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds and up to a top speed of 160km/h.
A 45.1kWh Blade battery ensures a driving range of up to 380km, and it can be replenished with a 6.6kW AC wall outlet or a 60kW DC plug.
The crossover measures 4,310mm long, 1,830mm wide, and 1,675mm tall, putting it in the same league as something like the popular Kia Seltos.
Only one trim line of the Atto 2 is available in the Portuguese-speaking country, and it is rather well-equipped.
The budget-minded crossover gets automatic LED lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, electric front seats, an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display, a wireless smartphone charger, multi-colour ambient lighting, and a 12.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A decent selection of safety and assistance systems is included, too, such as a 360-degree camera programme, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, and hill-start assist.
BYD Atto 2
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