BYD Atto 3 V2.0.0 update reaches all the way back to the first NZ cars

BYD has started pushing a major over-the-air software update to Atto 3 owners in New Zealand, and it reaches all the way back to the original cars sold here from 2022.

Version 2.0.0 began rolling out on 2 November, BYD Auto New Zealand told owners by email. It brings changes to the infotainment, voice assistant and driver assistance systems, including tuning for the Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Emergency Lane Keep Assist on narrow and winding roads.

What’s in V2.0.0

The driver assistance changes include a new ICC setting that slows the car before corners, smoother driver override for ICC and Lane Departure Assist, and a choice of 5km/h or 1km/h steps when adjusting the cruise speed. The rear parking sensors now switch on automatically and stay active while reverse is selected.

On the infotainment side, the full list includes:

• New apps in the BYD store and an improved BYD assistant
• Improved Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection and use
• Voice control to play songs on Spotify, and to turn off heating and ventilation modes
• The voice assistant can be woken with the steering wheel button, even with the screen off
• One-tap account switching in the Account Centre
• One-tap seat heating and ventilation controls, where fitted
• Improved instrument cluster visibility and an optimised system interface
• Revised exit logic for the Panoramic View camera

The Atto 3 is not the only BYD getting new software. BYD is also pushing over-the-air updates to the Atto 2, Sealion 6 and Dolphin.

How to install it

BYD says the update can take 30 minutes or more, and recommends owners run it overnight because the car cannot be driven while it installs. The dashboard and centre screen may turn off during the process, and the exterior lights may come on.

The car must not be plugged in to charge, or the software will not install. The battery needs to be above 20%, and all doors, the bonnet and the boot must be closed.

The update downloads over the car’s built-in 4G connection, which needs strong Spark coverage. BYD says owners with questions should contact their selling dealer.