New car brand BYD Auto to launch in NZ

BYD Auto’s first vehicle to go on sale in New Zealand will be the Atto 3 (above). Photo: Ateco/BYD Auto

An all-new car brand is heading to New Zealand in quarter three this year; everyone say a big kia ora to BYD Auto.

BYD Auto is the automotive subsidiary of BYD Co Ltd, a Chinese multinational, high-tech company recognised as the largest producer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in the world. It has a product portfolio incorporating electric and plug-in hybrid cars, buses, trucks, sky-rail, forklifts, and cutting-edge rechargeable battery production. 

It will be represented in New Zealand by Ateco Automotive NZ, the distributor of Jeep, Ram, Fiat, LDV, and Maserati products here.  Ateco Automotive will establish and appoint a national BYD Auto dealer network in New Zealand’s major cities.

“A once in a generation brand,” says Warren Willmot, Brand Manager for BYD New Zealand. “BYD is the brand that will introduce electric vehicles to replace ICE-powered vehicles when it comes to convenience, sustainability and cost.” 

“BYD Auto is thrilled to partner with Ateco Automotive New Zealand,” says Wing You, General Manager of BYD Australia and New Zealand. 

“This is, after all, a well-respected and proven New Zealand automotive distributor with exceptional people in place to ensure the brand’s growth in Oceania.”

The first of the competitively priced vehicles BYD Auto New Zealand will introduce is the all-electric ATTO 3, open for presales next month. 

The mid-sized crossover SUV ATTO 3 will include two versions, with cruising ranges of 320kms and 420kms respectively, according to WLTP conditions. 

In 2023, two new BEV models will join the line-up with a further two models – a mix of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid electrics – to launch in 2024. 

In total, five different models will hit the local market from 2022 to 2025, ensuring a comprehensive offering in each segment.

Core to the BYD electric range of vehicles is the Blade Battery. A significant point of innovative difference that has put BYD on the map. The pioneering design allows for increased energy, storage capacity, and greater range, as its construction accommodates a more significant number of cells than a conventional Lithium-Iron phosphate battery. 

The Blade Battery has been subjected to rigorous industry-standard testing and beyond, including the infamous ‘nail penetration test’, designed to simulate an internal short circuit that causes fire.  Throughout testing, the Blade Battery retained a low surface temperature, emitting no smoke or flames.   

“Specific vehicle and dealer information will be released shortly,” says Willmot, “however, we can confirm the ATTO 3 will be eligible for the current full EV Clean Car Rebate of $8625.” 

BYD will be competing against fellow Chinese brand, MG Motors, in New Zealand, offering cheaper EVs to Kiwis.