In its robust pursuit of an all-electric future, AC Motors has introduced its inaugural product since securing the exclusive distributorship of BYD, the groundbreaking Atto 3. Engineered from scratch as part of BYD’s global initiative to lead in battery electric mobility, the Atto 3 is competitively priced at P 1.598 million for the standard range and P 1.798 million for the extended range model.
The compact EV SUV, a front-wheel-drive marvel, showcases an exterior design influenced by human kinetics and vitality. This thematic resonance extends to the interior, with a dashboard inspired by “Muscle Fiber.” Even minute details such as the door handles and AC vents are unconventional, reminding us of conch shells, which is in line with the marine/aquatic aspect of other BYD vehicles.
Tailored for the Philippine market, both the Atto 3 Dynamic (standard range) and the Atto 3 Premium (extended range) share a common powertrain: a single permanent magnet synchronous motor propelling the front wheels, generating 204 hp and 310 Nm of torque, resulting in a zero to 100 km/h acceleration in under eight seconds.
Both versions are equipped with BYD’s proprietary Blade Battery, diverging only in kWh capacity. The Dynamic boasts a 50-kWh overall capacity, while the Premium houses a 60-kWh battery. This configuration affords the Atto 3 an impressive cruising range of 410 to 480 km between charges.
Charging the Atto 3 is convenient, supporting standard 220-volt household sockets, an optional 7-kW AC wall box charger, and, for the fortunate few with access to DC fast chargers, rates of 70-kW for the Dynamic and 80-kW for the Premium. Both variants use the widely accepted CCS Type 2 connector.
Distinguishing features between the Dynamic and Premium include wheel size, lighting adaptability, and the presence of a panoramic sunroof. The cabin exudes luxury with standard synthetic leather seats, power-adjustable for the driver, and a sizable 12.8-inch tablet touchscreen display controlling most vehicle functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not initially available, an Over-the-Air (OTA) update is slated for late 2023.
Safety is paramount in the 5-star Euro NCAP-rated Atto 3, featuring 4 SRS airbags, tire pressure monitoring, ABS with EBD, stability control, and rear parking sensors with a reverse camera. The Premium variant raises the bar with adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, front clearance sensors, a 360-degree camera, and two additional airbags.
The BYD Atto 3 is Available in four colors: Surfing Blue, Parkour Red, Boulder Gray, and Ski White. The Atto 3’s interior comes exclusively in Eclipse Blue + Hazy Gray. With its competitive price tag, the BYD Atto 3 might be what the Philippines needs to switch to electric.
