BYD is preparing overseas expansion plans for the second-generation Yuan Plus electric SUV, which the company intends to market internationally under the name Atto 5.
The updated model was first unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show in April.
According to a report from Auto Trader NZ, New Zealand will become the first international market where BYD has officially confirmed the launch of the vehicle as the Atto 5, with sales scheduled to begin in 2027.
The new naming strategy positions the vehicle above the current Atto 3, which is the international name used for the first-generation Yuan Plus in most overseas markets.
Warren Willmot, general manager of BYD’s New Zealand operations, said the Atto 5 would replace the Atto 3 in the country rather than being sold alongside it.
BYD has not yet confirmed its strategy for Europe, although reports suggest an international launch outside New Zealand is unlikely before 2027.
The second-generation Yuan Plus is significantly larger than its predecessor.
The electric SUV measures 4,665 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width and 1,675 mm in height, making it 210 mm longer, 20 mm wider and 60 mm taller than the outgoing model.
Its wheelbase has also increased by 50 mm to 2,770 mm, while wheel sizes have expanded from 18 to 19 inches.
According to BYD, the redesigned model includes a 180-litre front trunk, 39 interior storage compartments and 750 litres of rear cargo capacity.
The vehicle also adopts BYD’s second-generation Blade Battery technology with support for the company’s Flash Charging system.
In China, BYD plans to offer two rear-wheel-drive variants at launch.
The entry-level version combines a 200-kW electric motor with a 57.545-kWh battery pack, delivering a CLTC driving range of 540 kilometres.
A higher-output variant uses a 240-kW motor paired with a 68.547-kWh battery, increasing range to 630 kilometres under the Chinese test cycle.
According to Chinese automotive publication Autohome, BYD plans to launch the new Yuan Plus in China on May 21.
The vehicle is expected to feature a range of upgraded comfort and technology features, including a 256-colour ambient lighting system, dual-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, 16-speaker Dynaudio audio system, integrated refrigerator, 50-watt wireless smartphone charging and seven airbags.
