BYD has announced that a new base-spec ‘Essential’ variant for its Dolphin and Atto 3 will arrive in March, prioritising affordability for the popular models.
How affordable? Well, the Dolphin Essential will come in at $29,990 while the Atto 3 will be priced from $39,990 (both excluding on-road costs).
BYD claims the budget-friendly trim grade acknowledges the cost-of-living pressures faced by Australians, putting its money where its mouth is by launching the cheapest EV option on the market.
The BYD Dolphin and Atto 3 Essential models will retain the same powertrains, with cost-cutting coming via reduced standard features. For example, the Dolphin loses its panoramic sunroof, heated seats and wireless phone charger, while the Atto 3 loses similar features but also makes do with smaller alloy wheels, a smaller touchscreen and fewer speakers.
Driving range for the Dolphin comes in at 340km (WLTP) powered by the same 44.9kW battery, while the Atto is capable of travelling 345km using the same 49.9kWh battery, and the Essential models retain their 5-Star ANCAP ratings.
“This is a win for the everyday Australian, and a significant moment in Australia’s automotive evolution,” said EVDirect CEO, David Smitherman.
“We’re delivering on our commitment to simplify the transition to new energy vehicles. The ‘Essentials’ range is designed to break down another barrier to EV adoption.
“Importantly, despite significant savings, the Essentials range doesn’t compromise on safety, driveability or range.”
The models are available for order from Monday 13 January, with the first examples expected to arrive in March.
