BYD Car Models in India

BYD (Build Your Dreams) is a Chinese automaker founded in 1995 that initially focused on battery technology before entering the automotive industry. BYD produces a range of all-electric and plug-in hybrid passenger vehicles. Positioned as an innovative player in the electric vehicle market, BYD car models boast extended electric range capabilities. Here is the list of BYD car models in India.

1. BYD eMAX7
2. BYD ATTO 3
3. BYD SEAL

BYD: Key Highlights

As one of India's most promising electric car brands to emerge recently, BYD vehicles provide unmatched styling and on-road prowess. Here are some of the key highlights that define the BYD experience:

Safety

BYD takes passenger safety very seriously. Its cars are packed with advanced safety features to prevent accidents and protect the occupants in case of any mishaps. Some of the leading safety technologies include adaptive and intelligent cruise control, which helps one automatically maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. 

The braking system on offer is carefully designed to help detect impending collisions early and apply brakes within time to avoid or reduce the impact. The Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) offered with BYD vehicles does just that. The Lane Departure Assist (LDA) can help you back into the proper lane if your vehicle drifts. 

The BYD Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system alerts drivers if vehicles are in the proximate difficult-to-see area(s). Electronic stability control offers better handling. For enhanced safety, BYD equips its cars with 360-degree cameras that show all the angles around the vehicle. 

BYD models are equipped with 6-7 airbags. The all-around airbag SRS protection system includes front, side, and side curtain airbags and load limit pretension safety belts to guard every corner of the vehicle.

The Ultra Safe Blade Battery used in BYD car models has successfully passed the nail penetration test, which is the most rigorous way to test car batteries' thermal runaway. The nail penetration test is often considered the Mount Everest of battery safety tests. Ultra Strength Blade Battery used in BYD models completed an extreme strength test that saw a 46-tonne truck driving right over it, once again resetting the bar for power battery safety. 

The sophisticated technology packed into BYD's car models aims to provide confidence, prevent accidents, and keep the occupants as safe as possible in the event of a crash. In terms of passenger protection, BYD spares no effort. They equip their vehicles with numerous cutting-edge features explicitly designed to maximise safety.

Design

Based on the design concept of "Ocean Aesthetics," BYD car models in India offer streamlined styling, lower body posture, and a longer wheelbase. These models provide a strong sense of electric dynamics and the future of driving.

Modern front grilles, futuristic body shapes, and careful attention to small details give BYD cars a noticeable presence on the road. In addition to the sophisticated styling, they also have moderate off-roading capabilities. Whether driving through town or on adventure trails, BYD's cars are designed to combine luxury with adventure.

Features like low wind resistance A-pillar, flat chassis, and D-pillar spoilers help optimise the aerodynamic characteristics of BYD models. BYD vehicles' smart and elegant vehicle posture is optimised for maximum aerodynamics.  

The streamlined and slender LED lens headlight design used in BYD models delivers a striking aesthetic and enhanced visibility. The Glistening “Ripple” lamps, based on the ripple of an ocean wave, have linear, gradually thinning lighting. 

These lamps give a sense of endless expansion. On the rear side, the boundless LED tail light used in BYD models uses a highly narrow linear light strip connecting the water drop dot matrix lights. It creates a beautiful visual sense of the sea and sky.

E-Platform 3.0, used in BYD car models, gives birth to features like shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase, significantly expanding the passenger space. A lower body and a longer wheelbase liberate the aerodynamic design, decreasing the drag coefficient of BYD models considerably.

BYD has carefully crafted its models' interiors to be sporty and youthful. The modern-style cockpit inside carries dynamism and class in every detail. The interiors of BYD cars exhibit a sense of passion and energy.

Interestingly, the panoramic sunroof included in some BYD models offers an enormous viewing area, less visible light and solar transmittance, and an excellent Ultraviolet isolation rate. It gives an open & expanded feel to the luxurious interiors of BYD car models. 

Features

Equipped with functions smart enough to make your journey easier, BYD car models aim to improve your driving experience and make your life efficient and convenient. The Vehicle to Load (VTOL) mobile power station function transforms BYD cars into a super mobile power bank, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable driving experience.

The 12.8-inch (32.5cm) Adaptive Rotating Suspension Electronic Pad offered in ATTO 3 is a notable highlight. It integrates voice recognition, intelligent voice reminders, Bluetooth hands-free calling, Bluetooth music, and more. Interestingly, according to the requirements, the super-large screen can be rotated by a simple finger touch. This provides the users with a brilliant interactive experience.

Mobile phone wireless charging offered in BYD models is convenient, fast, innovative, and practical. Additionally, the 360° holographic transparent imaging system can look around and even underneath the BYD cars so that there is no blind spot while you drive. 

A notable feature of BYD car models is the one-touch electric control tailgate. The tailgate offered by BYD in its models is one-touch open and close. It can be opened at a set height and has an opening height memory function. BYD provides NFC card keys in its models. NFC card keys are easy to carry and unlock the vehicle. 

BYD models are equipped with Blade Battery technology, which sets new benchmarks and redefines the standards of EV safety. Blade Battery has successfully passed the nail penetration test, the most rigorous way to test batteries' thermal runaway.

In 2022, BYD released Cell-to-Body technology. This technology integrates the battery and the vehicle body floor, transforming the original battery pack's “sandwich” structure into a "sandwich" structure for the complete vehicle. Thus, the updated e-platform 3.0 with Cell Body technology significantly improves BYD car models' safety, stability, handling, and performance. 

The Double Wishbone suspension's lateral support ability is outstanding, and its operation is accurate, safe, and reliable. The Five-Link suspension improves driving stability. The swing arm uses a high-strength forged aluminium alloy to significantly enhance the vehicle's comfort performance. The battery pack inside BYD models is sealed as part of the body, using an integrated sealing plate design. This increases the rigidity of the car floor several times.

Powerful Batteries

The AC permanent magnet synchronous motor equipped in BYD car models offers front-wheel drive capability. It can deliver a maximum power of 201.153 bhp. With 310 Nm torque, this powertrain surely powers BYD models with thunderous power. Notably, if customers' power requirements are less, they can also opt for the 160.922 bhp variant of this powertrain. 

Offering a maximum speed of 180 km/h, you can expect to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 10.1 seconds. This number for the 201.153 bhp variant stands at around 8 seconds. With these details, one can imagine BYD's strength in its models in India.   

Interestingly, some BYD models powered by iTAC Technology can dynamically adjust the front and rear axles' driving torque, providing customers with a better driving experience in any road condition.

About BYD

Founded in 1995 by Wang Chuanfu originally as a rechargeable battery company in Shenzhen, China, BYD expanded into mobile phone batteries and became one of the largest suppliers by 2003. Further, it decided to leverage battery expertise and expand into automobile manufacturing in 2003

BYD unveiled its first passenger vehicle in 2005, the BYD F3 compact sedan. In 2008, it launched the F3DM plug-in hybrid compact sedan, one of the first mainstream production plug-in hybrids. The e6 all-electric compact crossover was introduced in 2010. It was among the first all-electric crossover models.

BYD expanded into more significant sedan segments with the BYD S7 in 2011 and executive S8 and M6 models in 2013-14. It launched the Qin plug-in hybrid compact sedan in 2013, Tang plug-in hybrid SUV in 2015 and Song plug-in hybrid MPV in 2016.

Notably, BYD became the fastest-growing automaker in China in 2009, selling nearly 450,000 cars by 2010. It opened a passenger vehicle factory in Lancaster, California, in 2013 to enter the US market but struggled to gain market share.

By 2018, BYD sold over 200,000 plug-in electric vehicles globally, becoming a leader in new energy vehicles. In 2019, it partnered with Toyota to establish a joint research institute for battery technology development.

It sold over 500,000 new energy vehicles in 2020, leading the NEV market in China. New models launched more recently in India include the Seal model (March 2024). BYD has a global presence across Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America, and it sells vehicles and supplies batteries.

BYD Auto Industry Co Ltd entered the Indian market in 2007 by setting up its first factory to produce mobile phone components and batteries in a joint venture with TVS. Seeing opportunities in India's fledgling electric vehicle market, BYD expanded its operations beyond batteries and components. In the year 2008, BYD India began assembly operations for its electric vehicles' entirely built units (CBUs).

It continues to invest heavily in new energy vehicle development and is integrating more autonomous driving technology into its vehicles. Over the past 25 years, the company has progressed from a small battery maker into one of China's largest automakers and a global leader in electric mobility. 

Notable BYD Cars

BYD formally entered India in 2007 by setting up a battery plant in Chennai to manufacture and export batteries for mobile phones and laptops. It started testing electric buses in India in 2016. It has become one of the largest EV bus suppliers to various state transport corporations, with a market share of over 90% as of 2022. BYD is setting up a local manufacturing plant for EVs in India with a sizable investment.

It launched the feature-rich Atto 3, which marked BYD’s foray into India's private EV passenger vehicle segment. Along with the Atto 3 SUV, BYD has launched its Seal sedan in India. 

BYD has also forayed into the electric MPV segment in India with the 7-seater e6 MPV called the eMAX7. 

The launch of the Seal sedan, eMAX7 MPV, and Atto 3 indicates BYD’s intent to offer multiple EV options across different vehicle segments. BYD aims to lead India’s push towards net-zero carbon emissions through green mobility solutions.

As the company sets up local manufacturing, it is expected to make EVs more affordable and accelerate EV adoption in India. With its unmatched technology and vertical integration in batteries and EVs, BYD seems well-poised to capture a sizable chunk of India’s fast-growing electric passenger vehicle market.

With its technological expertise and significant global presence, BYD aims to shake up the EV market and accelerate the mainstream adoption of electric vehicles in India with its energy-efficient and reliable products. Going forward, BYD plans to launch more EV models across different vehicle segments in India.

BYD Product Portfolio

BYD offers an extensive range of competent and highly refined luxury cars across segments in India. With three models currently on sale priced competitively, the company gives Indian customers three choices to find the perfect fit for their lifestyle and needs.

BYD Atto 3

BYD (Build Your Dreams) entered the Indian auto market in 2022. It launched its first passenger vehicle in India, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV. BYD currently offers only a single variant of this SUV in India. The carefully set dimensions of the ATTO 3 make it stand out from other SUVs in India. The entire visual appeal of the ATTO 3 is very distinct and attractive.

With an unladen ground clearance of 175 mm, the BYD ATTO 3 can easily handle moderate off-roading. Four hundred forty litres of boot space makes the ATTO 3 an attractive companion for adventure trails. Interestingly, one can expand the booth space further to 1340 litres. With a kerb weight of 1,750 Kg, the BYD ATTO 3 makes moderate towing easy.

The BYD ATTO 3 is driven by a permanent magnet synchronous motor. It delivers maximum power and torque of 201.153 bhp and 310 Nm, respectively. The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. 

The Atto 3 has a 60.48kWh battery pack based on BYD blade battery technology. It has an ARAI-certified range of 521 km on a single charge, making it one of the long-range EVs available in India. The battery takes approximately ten hours to charge with an AC charger, and around 50 minutes to attain a 0-80% charging level with a DC charger. 

In terms of driving stability, a Mac Pherson strut suspension in the front and a Multi-Link suspension in the rear equip the ATTO3 sufficiently for easy and smooth driving. Importantly, ventilated disc brakes in the front and disc brakes in the rear offer appropriate safety for peace of mind in everyday driving.

BYD has made conscious efforts to equip the ATTO 3 with advanced safety features. For example, front, side, side-curtain, and far-side airbags offered with the ATTO 3 protect the occupants in an unfortunate accident. Seat belt reminders in the front and rear seats help further ensure the safety of the occupants.

Other advanced safety features include a tyre pressure monitoring system, an electric parking brake system, an anti-lock braking system, an electronic stability program, and a traction control system. 

Regarding technology and connectivity features, the BYD ATTO 3 offers a 12.8-inch (32.5 cm) intelligent rotating touch screen and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Eight in-cabin speakers inside the ATTO 3 add to the audio streaming experience. In addition to these features, the ATTO 3 offers USB A & C ports (front and rear), an English voice assistant, and Apple Car Play and Android Auto connectivity.   

BYD has equipped the ATTO 3 with novel features like automatic air conditioning, a heat pump, a PM 2.5 air filter, and a CN95 air filter. Regarding entertainment and connectivity features, the ATTO 3 has a 12.8-inch (32.5-cm) intelligent rotating touch screen, a centre console, eight in-cabin speakers, and an English voice assistant. BYD also offers USB A and C ports in the front and rear rows of the ATTO 3.

BYD is positioning the tech-loaded Atto 3 as a premium offering in India's fledgling EV space. It is priced between Rs 24.99 lakhs and Rs 33.99 lakhs (ex-showroom price in Delhi).

BYD Seal 

The dimensions of the BYD Seal give it a distinctive on-road presence. With a 5.7-metre turning radius, it is suited for most driving styles and Indian roads. Interestingly, the BYD Seal offers a 50-litre front trunk, so one can easily store water bottles and other travel essentials. The rear trunk capacity of 400 litres is sufficient to carry luggage and adventure gear, as the case may be.

BYD offers the Seal in three variants in India: Dynamic, Premium, and Performance. While the premium model supports rear-wheel drive and delivers extended range, the Performance model offers all-wheel drive capability. The performance variant supports a kerb weight of 2.185 Kg. Despite the sleek design of the Seal, one can expect a healthy towing capacity on adventure trails.

The Squirrel Cage Induction Asynchronous front motor and Permanent Magnet Synchronous rear motor give the performance variant a thunderous power of 522.9978 bhp. This is a sizable addition to the traction power offered in the Dynamic and Premium variants.

These variants provide maximum traction power of 201.153 bhp and 308.4346 bhp, respectively. 522.9978 bhp power and 670 Nm torque make the Performance variant a promising on-road performer. The Dynamic and Premium variants offer 310 Nm and 360 Nm torque, respectively. 

With 522.9978 bhp traction power and 670 Nm torque, the performance variant can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. About range, the Premium variant scores above the other two variants. It offers an electric range (NEDC combined cycle) of 650 kilometres.

The Dynamic and Performance variants offer a range of 510 kilometres and 580 kilometres, respectively. All three variants have a Double Wishbone front and Multi-Link rear suspension for driving stability. The performance variant is fitted with Frequency-Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers for better driving stability. All three variants of the BYD Seal are equipped with an intelligent power brake system. 

Regarding vehicle safety, BYD has made every effort to offer advanced safety features. It provides front, side, side curtain, and far-side airbags on all variants of the Seal. Dual-stage pre-tensioner front seat belts and pre-tensioner rear seat belts have been provided for enhanced safety of the occupants. BYD also provides seat belt reminders for both front and rear seats.

Other safety features include a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child restraint anchorage points. An electronic child lock, an advanced safety feature for children, is only offered with the Performance variant. In terms of pricing, the BYD Seal has been launched at an introductory price of Rs 41 lakhs (ex-showroom price in Delhi).

BYD eMax7

BYD offers its eMAX7 in two variants in India, Premium and Superior. One of the most distinctly visible features of the BYD eMAX7 is its length of 4,710 mm. Both variants have a ground clearance of 170 mm. 

This makes the eMAX7 suitable for mild to moderate off-roading adventures. The luggage capacity provided is 180 litres, but folding the seats in the third row expands it further to 580 litres.

Both the Premium and Superior variants of the BYD eMAX7 come equipped with an AC permanent magnet synchronous motor. The front-wheel drive-based powertrains of the Premium and Superior variants deliver 160.9224 bhp and 210.153 bhp power, respectively. Both these variants have a maximum torque rating of 310 Nm. 

Despite having the dimensions of a typical SUV, both BYD eMAX7 variants offered in India now provide sleek acceleration. While the Premium variant accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.1 seconds, the Superior variant takes 8.6 seconds. 

The driving range on offer is also impressive. One can expect a driving range (NEDC) of 420 and 530 kilometres with the Premium and the Superior variants, respectively. The 55.4 and 71.8 kWh batteries powering these variants are based on the BYD Blade Battery technology.  

Regarding driving safety and stability, BYD has made every effort to ensure passenger safety. With MacPherson Strut at the front and Multi-Link suspension at the rear, the BYD eMAX7 is equipped to offer smooth drives. Ventilated disc brakes in the front and disc brakes in the rear enhance driving safety. 

Other safety features include airbags (front, side, and curtain), pretensioned force-limiting seat belts (front and rear), seat belt reminders (front and rear), a tyre pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX child restraint anchorage points. 

Both variants of the BYD eMAX7 support entertainment features like FM radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and audio streaming. The 12.8-inch (32.5-cm) intelligent rotating touchscreen is a notable in-cabin highlight. 

BYD has equipped the eMAX7 with six in-cabin speakers to make driving enjoyable. Other technology features include voice assist, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The BYD eMAX7 carries a starting price tag of Rs 26.90 lakh (ex-showroom price in Delhi).

Despite being imported as entirely built units that attract high duties, BYD has packed its EVs with segment-leading features and globally proven technologies. BYD positions its models in India as premium offerings. As BYD sets up its local car manufacturing plant in India, it is expected to attain lower costs. 

It can leverage its expertise in battery technology and electric powertrains to attain a competitive edge over domestic rivals. This will help BYD accelerate the adoption of its models, considering the cost-conscious nature of Indian car buyers. 

BYD Market Share

BYD entered the Indian passenger vehicle market in 2022 by launching its Atto 3 electric SUV. This is currently among BYD's three car models available for sale in India. Other models include the BYD Seal sedan and BYD eMAX7 launched in 2024. 

As BYD is still very new to the Indian market, its overall market share would be tiny. A report in 2022 estimated that electric vehicles have only about 1% market share of total passenger vehicle sales in India.

BYD plans to expand in India over the next few years, specialising in electric vehicles, batteries, energy storage, and solar products. It also aims to start the local assembly of cars in India.

In the next 1-2 years, BYD is expected to launch more EV models in India, including some specifically designed for the Indian market. This could significantly grow BYD's sales and market presence.

However, BYD faces stiff competition from other EV makers like Tata Motors and MG Motors, which have already established a more substantial presence in India. BYD's ability to provide affordable EVs and expand its dealer network will be critical to its growth.

BYD has started in India but likely has a tiny market share. Since BYD is new in the Indian market, model-wise sales and growth data are not readily available. However, BYD's future growth prospects depend on increasing local production and expanding its model range.

Upcoming BYD Cars

BYD aims to launch multiple new models and updates to expand its portfolio further. Here are some of the upcoming cars:

• BYD Seagull