BYD Atto 2 electric SUV arrives in Europe, but can it keep up with Volvo’s top-selling EX30?

BYD’s smaller electric SUV, the Atto 2, is now arriving in Europe and the UK. Despite its small size, BYD expects big demand for its newest EV. Can it compete with top-selling electric cars like the Volvo EX30?

BYD launches new Atto 2 electric SUV in Europe

After the Atto 2 made its European debut at the Brussels Motor Show last month, BYD’s new electric SUV is now arriving overseas.

BYD said in a statement on Thursday it officially launched the Atto 2 in Europe, “opening a new chapter in green travel.”

During a press conference, BYD’s executive vice president, Stella Li, said the smaller (B-SUV) SUV segment is “critical” in Europe, and the Atto 2 is “poised to attract a vast pool of potential customers.”

Li said the new model features BYD’s Blade battery tech and e-Platform 3.0 vehicle architecture. Its compact design is also a perfect fit for tight European streets, BYD’s exec explained at the event.

In Europe, the Atto 2 will be offered in two trims: Active and Boost. All models feature an 8.8″ driver display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a panoramic sunroof, ergonomic seats, and an advanced driving assistance system (ADAS).

The base Active model has a 10.1″ rotating smart infotainment screen, while the Boost trim has an upgraded 12.8″ screen.

Other upgrades with the Boost model include a heated steering wheel and seats, a premium eight-speaker sound system, front parking radars, and a 360-degree camera system.

BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 optimizes interior space with a compact battery design that allows for up to 1,340 liters of luggage space (when the rear seats are folded).

At 4,310 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,675 mm tall, the Atto 2 is about the same size as the Volvo EX30 at 4,233 mm long, 1,838 mm wide, and 1,550 mm tall. BYD’s platform gives way to a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, topping the EX30’s at 2,650 mm for more interior room.

After delivering the first models in late 2023, the Volvo EX30 was Europe’s third best-selling EV last year, trailing only the Tesla Model Y and Model 3.

According to Jato Dynamics, Volvo’s smallest and most affordable EV secured over 78,000 registrations in Europe last year.

Can BYD’s new electric SUV keep up? The Atto 3 has been on sale in China since last year, called the Yuan Up. Starting at just over $13,000 (96,800 yuan), BYD sold nearly 125,000 Yuan Up models in China in 2024.

The EX30 starts at around 36,000 euros ($37,000) in Europe. Although Atto 2 prices are not available, BYD’s electric SUV is expected to start at about the same.

The Atto 2, powered by a 45.12 kWh battery, has a WLTP range of up to 312 km. Volvo’s EX30 is rated with a range of up to 476 km in Europe.

Source: CarNewsChina, BYD