BYD Makes Official Entry into South Korean Auto Market
BYD made a significant announcement on January 16th, as they held a press conference in Incheon, South Korea, to officially declare their plans to enter the South Korean auto market. The Chinese automaker revealed that they are set to introduce three models to the South Korean market within the year: the BYD Atto 3, BYD Seal, and BYD Sealion 7.
The first model to hit the South Korean market will be the BYD Atto 3, which is now available for pre-order. Deliveries of the Atto 3 are expected to commence from mid-February onwards. This development comes shortly after South Korean regulators granted the Atto 3 emissions and noise certifications.
The BYD Atto 3 will be offered in two versions: the standard model and the Atto 3 Plus. Both variants will be equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries boasting a capacity of 60.48 kWh. On a single charge, the Atto 3 can achieve a driving range of 321 km under normal conditions. Furthermore, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
In terms of pricing, the Atto 3 will start at 31,000,000 KRW (approximately 21,300 USD). For comparison, the same model in China, known as the BYD Yuan Plus, is priced at 119,800 yuan (around 16,650 USD) for the base version. BYD’s South Korean subsidiary is also gearing up to launch the compact electric sedan, BYD Seal, and the electric SUV, Sealion 7, within the year, with an expected debut in the first half of 2025.
BYD has a longstanding presence in South Korea, operating in the country for nearly a decade and offering products such as electric forklifts, buses, and trucks. The company has partnered with six authorized dealers in South Korea and plans to open 15 showrooms and 11 service centers in key cities and regions, including Seoul and Jeju Island.
Cho In-cheol, Head of the BYD South Korean Passenger Car Division, emphasized the company’s commitment to enhancing the brand experience by working closely with dealers and partners. He also disclosed that BYD will showcase its new vehicles at the Seoul Mobility Show slated for April later this year.
Sources: Xinhua, ITHome
