Upgraded BYD Atto 3 to Get Massive Power Boost and Potential RWD Setup

The BYD Atto 3 is about to receive a significant performance upgrade, as new filings in China reveal that the 2026 modelwill feature a far more powerful electric motor and potentially a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration.

According to news sources, the updated Atto 3 (known as the Yuan Plus in China) will adopt the 230 kW (308 hp)electric motor from the BYD Seal EV sedan, representing a 107 hp (80 kW) increase over the current version. 

This 50% jump in power is expected to dramatically improve acceleration and overall performance, giving the Atto 3 a new edge in the competitive compact EV SUV segment.

The introduction of this motor also suggests a possible transition to BYD’s 800V e-Platform 3.0 architecture, which would allow for faster DC charging speeds—potentially up to 150 kW, nearly double the current model’s rate.

Interestingly, the charging port has been moved from the front right fender to the rear right side, hinting that the motor might now be positioned at the rear axle, much like in the Seal sedan.

If confirmed, this could mean that the 2026 Atto 3 will feature rear-wheel drive instead of the current front-wheel-drive layout, aligning with BYD’s push toward sportier dynamics and improved driving balance.

Visually, the 2026 model retains the refreshed design introduced in March 2025, featuring a bold trapezoidal grille, smoked headlights, blacked-out D-pillars, and new 18-inch alloy wheels. Its dimensions remain at 4,455 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,615 mm in height, with a 2,720 mm wheelbase.

However, the kerb weight has increased to 1,880 kg—up from the previous 1,625–1,690 kg range—indicating that a larger battery pack may also be part of this update.

Since its introduction in February 2022, the Atto 3 (Yuan Plus) has been one of BYD’s global success stories, sold in over 110 countries with more than 1 million units delivered. While the current version has been praised for its practicality and efficiency, it has begun to lag behind newer rivals in power and charging capability.