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The Indian automotive landscape is rapidly shifting towards electric and hybrid mobility, and Chinese auto giant BYD (Build Your Dreams) is set to redefine the compact SUV segment. The company has officially unveiled the BYD Atto 2 DM-i, a revolutionary Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) that boasts a class-leading total range of over 1,000 km and a substantial 90 km of pure electric driving capability.
This groundbreaking SUV is expected to make its way to Indian shores, providing an enticing option for buyers who want the efficiency of an EV for city commutes without the range anxiety of long-distance travel. Here is everything you need to know about the BYD Atto 2 DM-i.
The Powerhouse: BYD’s DM-i Super Hybrid Technology
The heart of the Atto 2 DM-i is BYD’s proprietary DM-i (Dual Mode-intelligent) Super Hybrid system. Unlike conventional hybrids that primarily use the electric motor to assist the petrol engine, BYD’s DM-i architecture is designed to prioritize electric driving.
For most city commutes and daily driving, the vehicle operates in pure EV mode, offering silent, zero-emission travel. The highly efficient petrol engine and sophisticated energy management system kick in seamlessly for longer highway runs or when the battery runs low, allowing the vehicle to achieve its phenomenal combined range.
Key Performance and Efficiency Highlights (Expected)
| Feature | Specification | Benefit for the Indian Buyer |
| Pure Electric Range (EV-only) | Up to 90 km | Sufficient for most daily city commutes and office runs, allowing for zero-emission driving without burning petrol. |
| Total Combined Range | Up to 1,020 km | Eliminates range anxiety, making inter-city and long-distance travel hassle-free. |
| Powertrain | DM-i (Dual Mode-intelligent) Super Hybrid | EV-centric driving experience with petrol engine backup for maximum efficiency. |
| Variants | Two (Expected) | Will likely offer different battery sizes and power outputs (e.g., ~170hp and ~200hp), catering to budget and performance needs. |
| Battery Technology | BYD Blade Battery | Known for its safety, thermal stability, and space-saving Cell-to-Body (CTB) integration. |
India Launch Outlook: Price, Rivals, and Timeline
While the BYD Atto 2 DM-i is slated for a European launch in early 2026, its introduction in the Indian market is highly anticipated, given the success of the Atto 3 and Seal. This new PHEV model would enter the competitive mid-size SUV space.
Expected India Launch & Pricing
| Parameter | Expected Details |
| Expected Launch Timeline | Mid to Late 2026 (Tentative) |
| Expected Ex-Showroom Price | ₹17.00 Lakh – ₹25.00 Lakh |
| Primary Competitors | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (Strong Hybrid), Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder (Strong Hybrid), MG ZS EV (Full EV) |
The Atto 2 DM-i is expected to be strategically priced to undercut most full-EV rivals while offering a superior electric-only range compared to conventional strong hybrids currently available in India.
Design Upgrades and Cutting-Edge Features
The Atto 2 DM-i shares its overall compact SUV silhouette with the fully electric Atto 2 (also known as the BYD Yuan Up EV), but the hybrid version gets a few subtle yet significant exterior tweaks:
- Redesigned Front Fascia: A larger central front grille is added to accommodate the cooling needs of the combustion engine.
- Aero Updates: The side vents on the front wings are removed, and new decorative elements are added to the lower bumper.
- Exclusive Colour: The DM-i variant is expected to be offered with a new, exclusive Midnight Blue exterior paint option.
On the inside, the Atto 2 DM-i is expected to retain BYD’s hallmark technological features:
- Rotatable Infotainment Screen: The centerpiece is the large, rotating touchscreen display for navigation and infotainment.
- Blade Battery Integration: Utilising the Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology, the battery is integrated into the vehicle’s structure, enhancing torsional rigidity and maximising cabin space.
- V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): This feature allows the car to act as a mobile power bank, perfect for powering external devices and appliances during camping or outdoor activities.
