Chinese new-energy vehicle (NEV) and technology company BYD has launched its new seven-seater plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sports-utility vehicle (SUV), the ATTO 8, in South Africa.

The ATTO 8 features fifth-generation Dual Mode (DM) Super Hybrid Technology and is available in two variants – the Premium DM-i and the Performance DM-p editions.

The Premium edition delivers a combined range of up to 728 km, while the Performance edition has a powerful 359 kW output and advanced body control that adapts effortlessly to varying road conditions.

In a media release, the company said this dual offering positions the ATTO 8 as both a practical everyday vehicle and a high-performance SUV.

Building on this foundation, the ATTO 8 introduces a more advanced layer of engineering across both plug-in hybrid and fully electric configurations.

The DM-p plug-in hybrid pairs a 1.5 l turbocharged engine with dual electric motors to deliver up to 400 kW (536 hp), accelerating from 0 km/h to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

In its fully electric form, the dual-motor system reaches outputs of up to 810 kW (1 086 hp) and achieves 0 km/h to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.

Complementing this performance is a robust battery offering, including a 35.6 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery delivering over 150 km of pure electric range and more than 1 000 km combined, while the battery electric vehicle (BEV) variant features an about 100 kWh battery capable of exceeding 600 km on a single charge.

Built on an advanced 1 000 V “Super E” platform, the vehicle also enables ultrafast charging capabilities, adding over 400 km of range in as little as five minutes in BEV configuration.

Inside, the seven-seat layout is complemented by a 15.6-inch infotainment display, a 21-speaker high-fidelity audio system and Level 2+ DiPilot 300 driver-assistance technology, supported by laser-based sensing.

The vehicle also includes finishes such as leather upholstery, bamboo-wood trim, 21-inch wheels and a full 360° camera system.

The ATTO 8 measures 5 m in length, with a wheelbase of 2 950 mm.

“Today is not only about introducing a new vehicle, it's about reinforcing who we are in this market, what we stand for and how seriously we take our role in South Africa's mobility future,” said BYD Auto South Africa MD Steve Chang during the launch.

“As a global leader in NEVs, BYD brings together an advanced technology, intelligent engineering and a deep understanding of how mobility is changing.

“But global leadership only matters when it becomes locally relevant.

“In South Africa, relevance means products that suit real lifestyles; it means efficiency that makes sense; it means premium quality without losing practicality; and it means giving customer confidence that this brand is present, invested and committed to this market.

“The BYD ATTO 8 is a very important part of that story,” he added.

Also speaking at the launch, BYD Auto South Africa commercial director Mark Handley explained that the ATTO 8 comes with a five-year, 100 000 km vehicle warranty, and a five-year 100 000 km maintenance plan.

“For us, the ATTO 8 is more than just a new model. It is an opportunity to grow the BYD customer base in South Africa, to reach new households and continue building confidence in our BYD brand,” said Handley.