China’s premier electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, BYD, has reached a remarkable milestone with the production of its 500,000th Yuan Plus EV model. This achievement has been accomplished in a mere 19 months since its market introduction. The Yuan Plus, known as the Atto 3 in international markets, has gained worldwide acclaim, setting new standards in the EV industry.
The Yuan Plus is a groundbreaking all-electric model, distinguished as the first A-Class SUV utilizing BYD’s e-platform 3.0, designed to enhance efficiency and safety. The base version of the vehicle is equipped with a 49.92 kWh BYD Blade Battery and a front electric motor delivering 201 hp and 310 Nm peak torque, providing an impressive 430 km (267 miles) of range. Its starting price is set at 135,800 yuan (approximately $18,700).
Notably, the Yuan Plus has already made significant inroads in international markets, with over 102,000 Atto 3 units exported as of August 2023. This electric SUV has played a pivotal role in expanding the BYD brand globally, with the first batch of Yuan Plus EVs shipped to Mexico in June, marking an expansion of BYD’s presence in North America. The model’s global footprint includes its launch in Colombia in October, followed by Brazil and Thailand in November 2022, and is currently available in 55 countries worldwide.
The Atto 3 achieved a remarkable feat by outselling other prominent EV brands, including Volkswagen, Tesla, and Volvo, making it the best-selling EV in Sweden in July.
BYD’s consistent monthly sales volume, consistently surpassing 30,000 units, underscores the company’s achievement in reaching the 500,000th Yuan Plus production milestone in just 19 months since its launch.
Simultaneously, BYD has introduced the Yuan Plus Champion Edition, expanding its lineup to five trims with prices ranging from 135,800 yuan ($18,700) to 163,800 yuan ($22,516). This new trim offers two additional exterior color options, Oxygen Blue and Dynamic Purple (available for an extra 2,000 yuan), along with a luxurious beige interior.
Furthermore, several enhancements have been made, including the integration of a 3D transparent panoramic image system, child-friendly mode, and front seat heating and ventilation. Buyers now have the choice between two BYD Blade battery options, offering either 430 km or 510 km of range. BYD’s continued innovation and expansion affirm its position as a formidable player in the global EV market.
