Second-Gen BYD Atto 1 Pre-Orders Open in China

The second-generation BYD Seagull, sold as the BYD Atto 1 in Nepal, is moving closer to its launch in China, with pre-orders now open in its home market. The upcoming electric hatchback brings significant changes to its dimensions, cabin features, powertrain layout and charging technology.

The new model represents a major overhaul of the current Atto 1, growing substantially in size while adopting a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout. It is also expected to introduce more premium features, potentially positioning it as a more capable offering in China's competitive affordable EV segment.

Measuring 4,205 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width and 1,570 mm in height, the second-generation Seagull has a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. It is 425 mm longer than the outgoing model, suggesting a more spacious cabin and improved practicality. The exterior styling also adopts a more mature design than the current-generation hatchback.

Inside, the new Seagull features a five-seat cabin with a large floating display using a split-screen layout. The left section displays key driving information, including speed, gear position, driving range and energy consumption, while the remaining area handles infotainment functions such as navigation and music.

Other features include power-adjustable front seats, a massage function for the driver's seat, multi-colour ambient lighting and adjustable rear air vents. The car also gets two storage compartments beneath the second-row seats, along with BYD's magnetic accessory buttons.

The switch to rear-wheel drive has also freed up space for a 94-litre front storage compartment under the bonnet. The rear boot offers up to 1,380 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down.

Power comes from a rear-mounted electric motor producing 95 kW (127 hp). Buyers in China will reportedly get two battery options: 30 kWh and 39.2 kWh. The claimed CLTC driving range stands at 320 km and 420 km, respectively, equivalent to approximately 262 km and 344 km under the WLTP testing cycle.

The new Seagull is also expected to offer BYD's flash-charging technology, which could charge the battery from 10% to 97% in around nine minutes. However, this feature has not been confirmed as standard equipment across the range.

An optional roof-mounted LiDAR sensor is also expected to be available as part of BYD's DiPilot 300, also known as the God's Eye B driver-assistance system.

In Nepal, the current-generation BYD Atto 1 is available in two variants, Dynamic and Premium. The Dynamic features a 45 kW electric motor paired with a 30.08 kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 230 km. It is priced at Rs 30.75 lakh.

The Premium variant gets a larger 38.88 kWh battery while retaining the same 45 kW motor. Its claimed range increases to 300 km, and it is priced at Rs 34.80 lakh. Both variants are currently available in Nepal, catering to buyers looking for a compact electric car for everyday use.

In China, the second-generation BYD Seagull is expected to be priced below CNY 100,000 (approximately USD 14,900).

While BYD has yet to announce an official international launch timeline for the second-generation model, its larger dimensions, rear-wheel-drive configuration and upgraded equipment could make it a significant evolution of the Atto 1.