Atto 2 DM-i makes BYD cheapest EV and PHEV brand

BYD has strengthened its claim as Australia's affordability leader in electrified vehicles with the launch of the new Atto 2 DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV. Priced from $24,990 plus on-road costs, the newcomer appears to be Australia's cheapest plug-in hybrid, complementing the Atto 1 Essential electric hatch, which is currently available from $19,990 drive-away. Together, the pair give BYD the lowest entry points to both EV and PHEV ownership in Australia.

The arrival of the Atto 2 DM-i broadens BYD's electrification strategy in Australia at a time when price has become one of the industry's biggest battlegrounds.

Just weeks after the brand grabbed headlines with the Atto 1 Essential EV's promotional $19,990 drive-away pricing, BYD has now moved to the other end of the electrification spectrum with a budget-friendly plug-in hybrid.

The new Atto 2 DM-i range opens with the Essential at $24,990 plus on-road costs, while the Premium is priced from $29,990. Both sit below the fully electric Atto 2 Dynamic and Premium models, which continue at $31,990 and $35,990 respectively.

Under the bonnet is BYD's Dual Mode 4.0 Super Hybrid system, combining a 72kW 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. The xproduces a combined 122kW, while the Premium increases output to 156kW. Both deliver 300Nm of torque through the front wheels.

A 7.85kWh Blade battery in the Essential delivers a claimed 39km of electric-only driving range under WLTP testing, while the Premium's larger 18.03kWh battery extends that figure to 90km. BYD claims total driving ranges of 845km and 895km respectively.

The Atto 2 DM-i automatically switches between EV, series-hybrid and parallel-hybrid operating modes depending on driving conditions, allowing it to maximise efficiency without driver intervention.

Standard equipment includes an 8.8-inch digital instrument display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.

Premium variants add heated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, ambient lighting, wireless phone charging and vehicle-to-load capability.

The new variant also broadens buyer choice within the Atto 2 line-up. Customers can now choose between a conventional battery-electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid alternative that offers daily EV commuting with the security of a petrol engine for longer trips.

Perhaps more importantly, the launch means BYD now occupies both ends of Australia's affordable electrified market, with the Atto 1 currently the cheapest EV and the Atto 2 DM-i appearing to be the cheapest PHEV available to local buyers.

BYD's latest addition is likely to increase pressure on rival brands competing in Australia's rapidly growing plug-in hybrid segment.

While competitors have largely fought for market share through temporary discounts and promotional campaigns, the Atto 2 DM-i arrives with a headline-grabbing entry price that establishes a new benchmark for affordability. Combined with the Atto 1's cut-price EV positioning, BYD has firmly planted itself at the value end of both major electrified vehicle categories.

How much does the BYD Atto 2 DM-i cost?
Essential – $24,990
Premium – $29,990
*Prices are plus on-road costs

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