BYD Starts Testing New 7-Seater SUV, Atto 3 Upgrades

KatadataOTO – BYD is once again preparing a new product to fill its Dynasty series, which currently includes several models like the Atto 2 and Atto 3.

It should be noted that the Atto model is sold as the Yuan in its home country. Therefore, this new model is believed to carry the name Yuan Max as its highest-end model.

Still in the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment, the model touted as the BYD Yuan Max was caught road-testing in China wrapped in camouflage.

In terms of design, the BYD Yuan Max is believed to retain the Atto model's character, such as its tapered headlight shape.

Photo: Carnewschina

The BYD Yuan Max appears to have larger dimensions compared to the previous Atto model.

For comparison, the BYD Atto 3 has a five-passenger capacity and measures 4,455 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,816 mm in height. 

Given its larger size compared to the Atto 3, there is a high probability that the BYD Yuan Max will have a 7-seater configuration.

A glimpse of its interior has been revealed. At first glance, it seems to retain the character of the Atto 3, without many physical buttons and using a two-spoke steering wheel model.

As usual, there is a large head unit in the front area. There are two cup holders, and several parts of the center console are wrapped in a chromatic color, adding an elegant feel to the cabin.

“The Yuan Max will likely adopt the latest powertrain used for entry-level electric cars, including the Sealion 05 EV,” wrote a Carnewschina report, quoted on Wednesday (31/12).

The Sealion 05 EV is currently equipped with a 140 kW (188 hp) rear-wheel-drive electric motor. Its battery has a capacity of 50 kWh, offering a range of 430 kilometers based on the CLTC testing method.

However, a more powerful version is also available with a 160 kW (215 hp) electric motor and a 60.9 kWh battery, providing a range of 520 kilometers.

Photo: KatadataOTO

For your information, BYD does not currently have a 7-seater SUV in Indonesia. However, they offer the BYD M6 electric Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) in both 6-seater and 7-seater options.

Meanwhile, in the premium class, there is one 6-seater model, the Denza D9, priced at around Rp 950 million.

The arrival of the BYD Yuan Max could be an interesting development in the country, as there are not many 7-seater SUV options available for consumers.