Video: BYD’s smallest EV lands in New Zealand from $29,990

BYD has launched the Atto 1 in New Zealand, bringing its smallest and most affordable electric car to market with pricing starting at $29,990 for the Essential and $35,990 for the Premium.

Known as the Seagull in other markets, the Atto 1 sits under four metres long and slots in below the Dolphin and Atto 2 in BYD’s local lineup. Both variants use BYD’s Blade Battery technology, with the Essential packing a 30kWh unit for 220km of WLTP range and the Premium stepping up to 43.2kWh for 310km. Power comes from a permanent magnet synchronous motor driving the front wheels, producing 65kW and 175Nm in the Essential or 115kW and 220Nm in the Premium.

Both models come well equipped with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition as standard, backed by a five-star ANCAP safety rating and six airbags. Inside, there’s a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and BYD includes a V2L adapter with both trims.

We’ve spent time with the Premium model and came away genuinely impressed. Despite its compact dimensions, the Atto 1 feels roomy inside, with a 2,500mm wheelbase creating surprising space for occupants and a 308-litre boot that expands to over 1,000 litres with the rear seats folded. On the road it has a zippy, engaging character with enough power to feel almost sporty, and a composed ride that handles everything from cobblestones to the motorway without feeling out of its depth.

It’s not flawless. The brakes could do with a firmer pedal, the air conditioning is manual rather than climate controlled even on the Premium, and seating is limited to four. But for what it sets out to do, the Atto 1 does it very well.

Is it the best value in the EV market? Probably not, with the larger Atto 2 available from just $5,000 more. But for buyers who want or need a genuinely small car, the Atto 1 makes a seriously compelling case.