BYD, a leading Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) maker, is set to make its mark in the South Korean passenger car market with the introduction of its Atto 3 electric SUV. The company recently announced that deliveries of the Atto 3 will begin in South Korea in February, with plans to launch the Seal electric sedan and Sealion 7 electric SUV in the country later this year.
The Atto 3, also known as the Yuan Plus in China, was initially launched in February 2022 and is BYD’s first global model. With a starting price of RMB 119,800 ($16,340) in China, the Atto 3 offers South Korean consumers a stylish and affordable electric SUV option.
In South Korea, the Atto 3 is available in two versions – the base Atto 3 and the premium Atto 3 Plus, with pre-subsidy starting prices of 31.5 million won ($21,600) and 33.3 million won, respectively. Thanks to the South Korean government’s electric vehicle subsidy, both variants are reduced to approximately 20 million won, making them even more attractive to consumers.
Both versions of the Atto 3 come equipped with BYD blade batteries based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, offering a capacity of 60.48 kWh and a range of about 321 kilometers. BYD prides itself on the safety and performance of its LFP battery technology, which outperforms competitors in the market.
The Atto 3 is a single-motor front-wheel drive model built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 EV platform. It boasts a peak motor power of 150 kW, peak torque of 310 Nm, and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 7.3 seconds. With its impressive performance and range, the Atto 3 is poised to make a strong impact in the South Korean market.
To support its expansion in South Korea, BYD plans to open 15 showrooms and 11 after-sales service centers in key areas such as Seoul and Gwangju. The company also emphasizes data security by using local servers for data transfer in its South Korean vehicles, addressing concerns about privacy and protection.
BYD’s entry into the South Korean market marks a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. The company has already made strides in other markets, such as Japan, where it recently entered the passenger car market and showcased the Sealion 07 EV. With a strong track record of success and innovation, BYD is well-positioned to compete with local auto giants and establish a strong presence in the South Korean automotive industry.
In conclusion, BYD’s foray into the South Korean passenger car market with the Atto 3 signals its commitment to offering high-quality, affordable electric vehicles to consumers around the world. With a focus on performance, safety, and innovation, BYD is poised to make a significant impact in South Korea and beyond.
