Chinese giant tries its hand at an ultra-lucrative, ultra-competitive market segment
It is difficult to underestimate the importance of the BYD Atto 2 to its maker.Slotting into the range between the Dolphin and Atto 3, it’s a midsize crossover/SUV looking for a slice of market share from an ultra-competitive segment.Rivals are flooding in from all corners of the globe, including the Vauxhall Frontera Electric, Volvo EX30, Hyundai Kona Electric, MG 4, Jeep Avenger, Mini Aceman and Peugeot E-2008. The list goes on.Built primarily for urban families looking for a dose of practicality, the Atto 2 promises “class-leading” interior technology and practicality, as well as generous levels of standard equipment and a competitive price tag. Let’s find out if it can hold its own.The BYD Atto 2 range at a glanceComplications from China mean the Atto 2 strays from the brand’s revised nomenclature in not being named Sealion, as its SUVs were due to be called.From launch, you can only have a 45.1kWh battery (of usable capacity) that provides a range of 194 miles, however UK-specification cars are due to get a slightly larger 50kWh unit with a bit more range, but that figure isn’t confirmed yet. The battery is mated to a 174bhp electric motor driving the front wheels. Two specifications will initially be available: Active and Boost. We won’t see Active models in the UK, meaning Boost cars will become our entry-level model. A longer-range Comfort version, with a larger battery and more powerful electric motor, will join the ranks at the end of the year.All cars get an 8.8in digital instrumentation display, which is accompanied by an infotainment touchscreen of varying sizes depending on which specification you choose. Active cars get a 10.1in display, while Boost and Comfort get a 12.8in unit which can be rotated from portrait to landscape depending on your preference. Elsewhere inside, every model receives over-the-air updates and is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice commands, seats upholstered in vegan leather, heated seats, a crystal-effect gear selector and a panoramic glass roof.