Chinese automaker BYD has responded to Euro NCAP’s 2024 ‘Not Recommended’ rating of the Atto 3’s Assisted Driving system, upgrading existing vehicles via software and introducing a new system for the 2025 model year. The updated system is now rated as ‘Good,’ while older models achieve a ‘Moderate’ score after the over-the-air update.
Euro NCAP had initially flagged the 2022 Atto 3 for serious shortcomings in its Intelligent Cruise Control, BYD’s Level 2 driver-assistance system. The assessment found the system failed to respond appropriately to other vehicles or motorcycles and did not adequately intervene when drivers were unresponsive, resulting in a 55% score for Assistance Competence and 35% for Safety Backup.
Following the update, 2022 models now achieve 60% in Assistance Competence and 72% in Safety Backup, while 2025 vehicles equipped with a fully redesigned system reach 67% and 80%, respectively, earning a ‘Good’ rating. Richard Schram, Technical Director at Euro NCAP, said: “We are pleased that BYD has responded to our 2024 test results with a software update for existing models and a new, improved ‘Good’-achieving Assisted Driving system for the 2025 model year Atto 3. Owners of pre-2025 models must ensure they install the latest software update to benefit from improved safety.”
Euro NCAP plans to introduce new Assisted Driving protocols and on-road testing from 2026, aiming to enhance both the functionality of driver-assistance systems and overall user experience. Schram added, “By evolving our testing and scoring methods, we are pushing manufacturers to develop more sophisticated Assisted Driving systems, while ensuring the driver remains engaged. We strongly recommend that car buyers perform extensive test drives with all systems on before purchasing a vehicle.”