Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is gearing up to expand its presence in the Indian market with the launch of two new SUVs. The company will be launching the BYD Atto 2, a low-cost electric SUV, and the BYD Seal U, a plug-in hybrid SUV with an impressive driving range of up to 1,100 km. Eleven such models are likely to help BYD expand its reach in India, where the demand for electric and hybrid cars is gaining momentum.
At present, BYD has four premium models sold in India, which are imported from or assembled with imported kits. The company is trying to assert its place in the fast-growing EV market in the country with these new SUVs.
BYD Atto 2: Affordable Electric SUV for Indian Buyers
BYD Atto 2 will be slotted under the Atto 3 in the company's SUV range, and is likely to be one of the most budget-friendly electric offerings by the brand in India.
The SUV is likely to be manufactured in India using CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits and will be priced in the region of ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Atto 2 is roughly 4.3 metres long, 1.8 metres wide, 1.7 metres tall and has a wheelbase of 2.6 metres, which makes it ideal for driving in towns and cities as well as on the highway.
The Atto 2 comes with 32 kWh, 44.8 kWh and 64.8 kWh packs in other countries. The SUV has a WLTP-certified driving range of up to 430 km (on a single charge), depending on the battery variant. BYD will likely have a fully electric car in India only.
The SUV will also be bundled with luxury options, cutting-edge connectivity, safety, and quick-charging.
The plug-in hybrid SUV is BYD’s new Seal U with a combined range of 1,100 km.
The BYD Seal U is likely to be one of the most impactful launches in India for BYD. This SUV will have a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, which is a combination of a petrol engine and an electric motor, unlike the Atto 2.
The SUV is anticipated to be approximately 4.8 metres long, 1.9 metres wide, 1.7 metres high and have a wheelbase of 2.8 metres, which will provide good cabin space.
The power to the Seal U may be derived from a turbo-petrol 1.5-litre engine mated with an 18.3 kWh battery pack. The SUV will also have an electric range of up to 125 km, which means it can be used for daily city driving without the need for petrol.
If the petrol engine is used in conjunction with the battery, the total range is estimated to be around 1,100 km, which is expected to alleviate range anxiety for long-distance trips.
Both the SUVs are likely to be assembled in India
As per the industry estimates, both the BYD Atto 2 and the BYD Seal U will be CKD models and built in India. This will allow BYD to save money in comparison to the fully imported vehicles and also make it more competitive in the Indian market.
Expected Competition
After its launch, the BYD Atto 2 will be a good challenger to Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, MG Windsor EV, Mahindra BE 6 and Maruti e Vitara electric suvs.
In the meantime, the BYD Seal U will appeal to those who prefer high-end hybrid SUVs and may challenge the Toyota Innova HyCross Hybrid or other hybrid SUVs on the near horizon and available in India.
Launch Timeline
BYD has yet to officially say when either SUV will be released. But, it is said that both models will come to the Indian market in the coming few months as the company is expanding its product range.
Final Thoughts
BYD's future launches signal the brand's intent to have more affordable electric mobility solutions and practical hybrid technology solutions in India. The Atto 2 should be offering a relatively long driving range and competitive prices to attract first-time EV buyers, while the Seal U will be a more practical option for those who want to benefit from the convenience of electric driving, combined with that of a petrol engine and a combined range of an impressive 1,100 km.
The two SUVs might prove to be crucial additions to India's booming electric and hybrid vehicle segment if they are competitively priced.
