The next generation of BYD’s ultra-cheap Atto 1 EV is coming on October 20, with the heavily updated version bringing a raft of improvements over its predecessor including more power, bigger dimensions and a switch to rear-wheel drive.

BYD’s launch invitations to media have been made public by Chinese publication IT Home News, which revealed the Atto 1 – known as the Seagull in its home market – will be unveiled at the Zhengzhou International Circuit. 

Pink BYD compact hatchback photographed in a studio, three-quarter front view with soft pink background.
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We already know some of the biggest changes to the model thanks to regulatory filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, which state that the newcomer will be 4205mm long, 1810mm wide and 1570mm high with a 2650mm wheelbase. 

That has given it room for an extra seat so it can now accommodate five passengers, and also puts it closer to a Toyota Corolla in size. There will also be a frunk, or front trunk, thanks to the space that’s been freed up by the transition from front- to rear-wheel drive, which is a first for the model. The rear suspension is being upgraded to a multi-link independent set-up, too. 

The Chinese version of the Atto 1 is getting a startling power boost from 55kW to 95kW. Australia’s models currently make 65kW for the base Essential, rising to 115kW for the Premium variant. 

Beige luxury car interior with a large central touchscreen, steering wheel on the left, and front seats visible.
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Reports in China say the next generation comes with two BYD lithium iron phosphate Blade battery options, good for CLTC ranges of up to 320km or 420km. Higher-spec versions will reportedly feature BYD’s 1500kW Flash Charging tech for a claimed 10 to 70 per cent charge time of five minutes.

Changes to the exterior aren’t nearly as dramatic as the mechanicals. There’s a semi-hidden treatment for the door handles, which doesn’t break China’s ban on pop-out versions of the feature, plus there are split tail-lights and a spoiler. Interior upgrades include a redesigned centre console, central touchscreen and flat-bottomed steering wheel.