Chinese new-energy vehicle giant BYD Auto is preparing to strengthen its growing presence in South Africa with the upcoming launch of the all-new Atto 2 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV expected to intensify competition in one of the country’s fastest-growing vehicle segments.
The new model will be officially unveiled to local media and industry stakeholders on June 10 and 11, with pricing and full specifications set to be announced on the second day of the launch.
The launch comes barely two months after BYD introduced the larger Atto 8 plug-in hybrid SUV to the local market as part of an aggressive product offensive aimed at increasing its market share in South Africa.
DM-i plug-in hybrid technology
While the manufacturer has kept most details under wraps, it has confirmed that the Atto 2 DM-i will feature its latest DM-i plug-in hybrid technology, combining electric driving capability with the flexibility of a petrol-powered drivetrain for longer journeys.
The newcomer will also utilise BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which has become one of the Chinese manufacturer’s signature innovations and is already featured across several models sold globally.
Industry observers expect the Atto 2 DM-i to target buyers looking for an electrified compact SUV that offers lower fuel consumption without the range anxiety often associated with fully electric vehicles.
Sights on bigger share of local market
The vehicle is expected to compete against a growing list of rivals in South Africa’s electrified SUV market, including the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, Haval Jolion Pro HEV, Chery Tiggo 7 CHS, Omoda C7 SHS and other new-energy offerings from Chinese manufacturers seeking a bigger share of the local market.
“The South African market has responded incredibly positively to BYD’s growing vehicle portfolio, and we are excited to continue building on that momentum with the introduction of the Atto 2 DM-i,” said BYD Auto South Africa marketing director Nomonde Kweyi.
She said the vehicle was aimed at customers who wanted the benefits of electrified mobility without sacrificing practicality, convenience or everyday usability.
Growing demand for hybrid and electric vehicles
The arrival of the Atto 2 DM-i forms part of BYD’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in South Africa as demand for hybrid and electric vehicles continues to grow.
Key questions remain around the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, electric driving range and, perhaps most importantly, its pricing. Those answers will be revealed when the wraps come off next week.
- Sunday World Motoring will be attending the official launch and will bring readers first driving impressions, pricing details and a comprehensive review of BYD’s latest challenger in the local SUV market.
- BYD Auto is launching the Atto 2 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV, in South Africa on June 10-11 to strengthen its presence in the fast-growing electrified SUV segment.
- The Atto 2 DM-i features BYD's latest DM-i hybrid technology and Blade Battery, offering electric driving with petrol backup for longer range and reduced fuel consumption.
- The new model aims to compete with electrified SUVs like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, Haval Jolion Pro HEV, and other Chinese competitors in South Africa.
- BYD targets customers seeking practical, convenient electrified mobility without range anxiety, building on positive market response to its existing portfolio.
- Details on pricing, fuel efficiency, and electric range will be announced at the launch, as BYD looks to expand amid growing local demand for hybrid and electric vehicles.
Chinese new-energy vehicle giant BYD Auto is preparing to strengthen its growing presence in
While the manufacturer has kept most details under wraps, it has confirmed that the Atto 2 DM-i will feature its latest DM-i plug-in hybrid technology, combining electric driving capability with the flexibility of a petrol-powered drivetrain for longer journeys.
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Key questions remain around the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, electric driving range and, perhaps most importantly, its pricing.
Sunday WorldMotoring will be attending the official launch and will bring readers first driving impressions, pricing details and a comprehensive review of BYD’s latest challenger in the local SUV market.
