China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is set to expand its portfolio in the Indian market this year. The company is likely to launch two new SUVs in India, which will give direct competition to the likes of Tata Sierra EV and Hyundai Creta Electric in the Indian EV market.
BYD’s expansion in India has been slow compared to other countries due to high import duties and restrictions on local investment. The company currently sells only 4 models in India, which are either fully imported or assembled. These models are mostly in the C and D segments, making them expensive for the average Indian car buyer. However, the upcoming launches are likely to make BYD’s cars more affordable and accessible.
Indian electric cars are a big craze abroad! Total exports have increased 14 times! See which cars are leading
1. BYD Atto 2 (B- segment SUV)
This potential B-segment SUV from BYD will slot below the Atto 3, making it the brand’s most affordable car in India.
- Size and design: This car has a length of 4.3 meters, a width of 1.8 meters, a height of 1.7 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.6 meters.
- Potential Price: This car could be assembled in India and launched at a price of around ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Battery and Performance: In the international market, it gets 32 kWh, 45.12 kWh/51.1 kWh and 64.8 kWh LFP battery packs. Depending on the variant chosen, this car offers a range of up to 430 km as per WLTP standards. It is available with power options of 94 hp, 174 hp and 201 hp.
- Strategy for India: Internationally, it is available in both plug-in hybrid and all-electric variants. However, in India, it is likely to be launched only in the all-electric variant.
Maruti Suzuki’s big preparations for electric vehicles! See what these new electric SUVs will be?
2. BYD Seal U (D- segment PHEV SUV)
While the Atto 2 is still being debated, the arrival of the BYD Seal U in India is considered certain. This D-segment SUV will be slotted below the Sealion 7.
- Size and design: This car has a length of 4.8 meters, a width of 1.9 meters, a height of 1.7 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.8 meters.
- Engine and Battery: BYD is set to launch its plug-in hybrid model in India. It is likely to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and an 18.3 kWh LFP battery pack.
- Range : This car will offer a massive range of around 125 km in electric mode alone and a total range of 1,100 km with petrol + battery.
Like the Atto 2, the BYD Seal U is also likely to be assembled in India from imported kits (CKD).
The new B-segment Atto 2 and advanced Seal U PHEV will help BYD gain a strong position in the mid-range and premium EV segments in India.