The Atto 3 is one of the first three models BYD introduced to Vietnamese customers, alongside the Seal and Dolphin. Of the three, the Seal is a sedan not designed for the masses, and the Dolphin is somewhat small for family needs, making the Atto 3 the most suitable. This Chinese model is the first pure electric vehicle in the mid-size B+ (or C-) segment in Vietnam, thus facing competition from both B- and C-segment models. For users who love novelty and a distinctive style, the Atto 3 is a worthwhile option.

Like other BYD products, this crossover is designed based on the Dragon Face design language, the dragon being a noble symbol in Chinese culture.

The slim and sharp adaptive LED headlights combine with a continuous daytime LED strip. Photo: Minh Quan

The closed front bumper creates a seamless look but retains small air intakes for the air conditioning system.

The philosophy of agility is reflected in the double crease running along the car, creating a sense of motion even when stationary.

The stylish LED taillights extend to both sides.

The curved design of the Atto 3.

V2L (Vehicle To Load) is a standard feature of the Atto 3 in particular and BYD electric vehicles in general.

Power is provided by a 60.48 kWh LFP Blade Battery.

The Atto 3 can accept DC fast charging up to 88 kW, but in reality, it can reach up to 91 kW, charging from 20% to 80% in 30 minutes.

The prominent 15.6-inch infotainment screen can rotate 90 degrees via a button on the screen or steering wheel.

The gear lever resembles a dumbbell handle.

The air vents are shaped like dumbbells.

The front seats are somewhat narrow due to the large dashboard and lack lumbar support.

The rear seats offer ample space with large cushions and a deep recline, providing comfortable headroom and legroom.

Like many current electric vehicles, the Atto 3's design emphasizes curves to improve aerodynamics and thus increase range. The slim, sharp adaptive LED headlights combine with a continuous daytime LED strip, simulating the eyes of a dragon. Connecting the C and D pillars is a plastic panel with a dragon scale motif, making the car look longer.

While the exterior is generally conventional, the interior is boldly unconventional, even quirky, drawing inspiration from a gym. The raised lines on the dashboard and door panels simulate muscle fibers and curves, the door handles resemble resistance bands, the gear lever looks like a dumbbell handle, and the air vents are shaped like dumbbells.

First-time passengers might be puzzled by the missing door handles, which are integrated into the speaker covers. The door speakers are shaped like guitars with three red strings. Beyond decoration, these strings can actually be played, a fun feature for those stuck in city traffic. Continuing the gym theme, the speaker covers could also be interpreted as boxing ring netting.

By eliminating the traditional gearbox found in gasoline cars, the Atto 3 has additional storage space under the center console, capable of holding various items, including handbags. This compartment houses two USB ports, a micro USB card slot, and a 12V port. This arrangement is tidy, but users have to bend down to access the ports instead of finding them readily available on the dashboard. However, if plugged in permanently, this is not a major issue.

The prominent 15.6-inch infotainment screen dominates the interior. If it seems too large, drivers can use BYD's signature feature and rotate it 90 degrees into portrait mode via a button on the screen or the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available but have a half-second delay when switching music or making calls. For a smoother experience, a wired connection is recommended.

In contrast to the large infotainment screen, the driver's display is modest, measuring only 5 inches and displaying basic information. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Atto 2, the display cannot be customized to adjust functions. A positive aspect of the Atto 3 is the retention of physical buttons for frequently used functions like regenerative braking, driving modes, and climate control. These buttons help drivers stay focused while driving.

In the rear, the Atto 3 offers comfortable space for its B+ segment, a typical advantage of electric vehicles. The rear seats recline well, and the trunk is spacious with a capacity of 440 liters. It's slightly unfortunate that the front seats are not overly wide, as they sacrifice some space for the center console.

The Atto 3 is named after the attosecond, the smallest unit of time in physics, implying agility. With a 201 horsepower motor generating 310 Nm of torque for a 1.7-ton weight, the Atto 3's acceleration is not overly abrupt or jerky like some electric vehicles. Instead, its throttle response is similar to a gasoline car, making it easy for new users to adapt. The steering is light, typical of Chinese models, but positively, it provides the necessary tightness and feels secure.

The manufacturer seems to have prioritized accessibility for electric vehicle newcomers, as the regenerative braking on the Atto 3 is not overly intrusive. Both Standard and High regeneration modes feel gentler than those in other electric vehicles in the segment, resulting in less drag when lifting off the accelerator.

Furthermore, the suspension is smooth, ideal for city driving and highways at moderate speeds, but it takes longer to settle after continuous cornering at high speeds. Overall, the Atto 3's handling can be summarized as "moderate." Many Chinese car manufacturers tend to offer high power output that exceeds the physical limitations of the chassis, especially the suspension, making the cars difficult to control at high speeds. The Atto 3 and other BYD models avoid this by providing a moderate power output, resulting in a more reassuring driving experience for most drivers.

Besides driving, the Atto 3's ADAS safety systems are quite effective. The 360-degree camera with 3D and transparent underbody modes is useful when navigating crowded markets and residential areas, while the hill descent control helps maintain speed without excessive braking.

The radar and sensors are responsive and accurate. Even in heavy rain, the Adaptive Cruise Control effectively identifies the vehicle ahead and maintains a safe distance. Under similar conditions, some German models fail to recognize the vehicle ahead and continuously display warnings on the screen. In lane-keeping mode, the Atto 3's steering intervention is smooth and gentle, without any jerking.

Powering the Atto 3 is a 60.48 kWh in-house LFP Blade Battery. This is BYD's trump card in its competition with other electric vehicle rivals and major automotive players. LFP batteries offer higher thermal stability, greater energy density, and lower cost compared to lithium-ion batteries.

The Atto 3 has a range of 480 km on a single charge. The lower version has a capacity of only 49.92 kWh and a range of 410 km. BYD claims the Atto 3 can accept 88 kW DC fast charging, but it can actually reach up to 91 kW, charging from 20% to 80% in 30 minutes. In hot weather, the charging speed remains constant at around 90 kW. From 80% onwards, the charging speed gradually decreases, reaching 16 kW at 99% and taking 4 minutes to reach 100%. This means that charging from 20% at a 120 kW station will take 1 hour and 4 minutes to fully charge.

Charging at home or using an AC port takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on the power output. Conversely, V2L (Vehicle To Load) is a standard feature of the Atto 3 and BYD electric vehicles in general, allowing the car to power external devices via the included charging gun and BYD's 4 outlets.

Priced between 766 and 886 million VND, the Atto 3 falls in the mid-range of the 11 models in the B+ segment. The Atto 3 is a suitable choice for young families seeking a comfortable car and a clean energy experience. Without home charging, users will spend more time searching for charging stations, especially high-power ones to save time. This challenge for BYD may gradually be resolved as more charging station providers enter Vietnam in the future.

Minh Quan