Dolphin Surf.
Since the 2026 model year is forward-looking, much of the information is based on early reviews, international specs, and announcements for its launch in markets like Australia and New Zealand.
Here is a review summary based on the available information:
Key Highlights & Market Positioning
Affordability: The Atto 1 is heavily anticipated to become Australia's cheapest EV, with estimated starting prices around $25,000 (before on-road costs) in that market, making it a strong competitor against budget petrol cars like the Toyota Yaris or Suzuki Swift.
Size: It is a compact city car (around 3,990mm long, 1,720mm wide), built on BYD's e-Platform 3.0.
Seating: It is typically configured as a four-seater, although some specifications mention five seats.
Powertrain and Performance (Varies by Trim)
The Atto 1 is generally offered in at least two main variants: Essential (or Dynamic) and Premium.
| Feature | Essential/Dynamic Trim | Premium Trim |
| Battery Capacity (LFP Blade) | $\approx 30 \text{ kWh}$ | $\approx 43.2 \text{ kWh}$ |
| WLTP Range | $\approx 220 \text{ km}$ | $\approx 310 \text{ km}$ |
| Max Power | $65 \text{ kW}$ | $115 \text{ kW}$ |
| Max Torque | $175 \text{ Nm}$ | $220 \text{ Nm}$ |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration | $\approx 11.1 \text{ seconds}$ | $\approx 9.1 \text{ seconds}$ |
| DC Fast Charging (Peak) | Up to $65 \text{ kW}$ | Up to $85 \text{ kW}$ |
| AC Charging (Onboard) | Up to $11 \text{ kW}$ | Up to $11 \text{ kW}$ |
Driving Feel: Early impressions suggest the instant torque makes it feel peppier than similarly sized petrol cars, with decent dynamics due to the low center of gravity. Highway stability is solid, though wind and road noise are noted at higher speeds.Interior and Technology
Design: The interior is described as tidy and purposeful with minimum frills, featuring the same "wavy lines" design language seen in the BYD Dolphin, though with potentially smaller screens and less soft-touch material given the lower price point.
Infotainment: Features a signature $10.1$-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with "Hi BYD" voice control.
Practicality: Offers plentiful storage spots throughout the cabin and a decent boot space for its size ($\approx 308 \text{ L}$ expanding to $\approx 1,037 \text{ L}$).
V2L: Includes Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the car to power external appliances.
Safety
The Atto 1 is expected to have a strong standard safety suite.
Globally, the model has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Standard equipment often includes six airbags (driver/passenger, side, and curtain), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane-Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
In summary, the 2026 BYD Atto 1 is shaping up to be a game-changer in the affordable EV segment, offering modern tech, solid safety credentials, and good urban practicality at a highly competitive price.
