BYD ATTO 3 (100KW)

Due to our unique COE structure, car prices in Singapore have always been closely tied to their power output. Higher-powered cars require a pricier Category B COE for registration, resulting in increased costs. To overcome this challenge, manufacturers have introduced lower-power versions of cars that qualify for a less expensive Category A COE. BYD’s latest offering, the Atto 3, follows this approach.

- KENNY YEO

Weekend - Drive 

• SECONDS 9.7 0-100KM/H
• MIN 30 CHARGING TIME (30% TO 80% SOC ON DC)
• KM 565 RANGE UP TO (WLTP CITY)

The Atto 3 is a detuned version designed to meet the requirements of a Category A COE. It features a power output of 100kW, down from 150kW in the previous model. This detuning enables BYD to offer the Atto 3 at a significantly reduced price of about $23,000, translating to savings of approximately 11%. Despite the power reduction, the 100kW version retains the same visual appearance, colours, head and tail lights, wheels, and interiors as its more powerful counterpart. It does not compromise on safety features either, with adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, 360-degree cameras, and camera warnings all intact. The only difference lies in the less powerful electric motor.

Although the 100kW Atto 3 is slower than its 150kW counterpart to reach 100km/h, it performs well up to 50-60km/h, which makes it suitable for city driving. Its low-end torque delivery is more important than horsepower in urban environments. With 310Nm of torque, the Atto 3 feels responsive and lively when accelerating from traffic lights. Its performance gradually tapers off at higher speeds.

In terms of aesthetics, the Atto 3 has a generic and somewhat familiar appearance, resembling the Hyundai Kona and Tesla Model Y. The interior design, however, can be divisive. The sporty and snug seats seem out of place for a family crossover SUV, and the door bins and centre aircon vents feature quirky designs inspired by Chinese gu zheng and dumbbells, respectively.