Well-known Chinese electric vehicle brand BYD Auto is set to arrive in New Zealand in the hands of Kiwi-owned distributor Ateco Automotive.
There had been a long wait for details of the brand’s arrival here, with it being originally announced that Australian firm EV Direct would be handling sales through a direct-to-consumer model.
Instead Ateco, well known for launching challenger brands, will distribute through a traditional dealer network.
Vehicles will begin arriving in the third quarter – we understand early in the quarter – with the all-electric Atto 3 SUV first off the rank.
Warren Willmot [pictured below], previously prominent for his time at LDV/Ssangyong where he launched their EV van line and more recently Renault and Isuzu Ute, will lead efforts locally as brand manager.
Willmot sees BYD as a massive opportunity for Ateco, with strong supply commitments from the factory.
“A once in a generation brand,” says Warren Willmot, Brand Manager for BYD New Zealand, “BYD is the brand that will introduce electric vehicles to replace ICE-powered vehicles when it comes to convenience, sustainability and cost.”
“BYD Auto is thrilled to partner with Ateco Automotive” says Wing You, general manager of BYD Australia and New Zealand.
“This is, after all, a well-respected and proven New Zealand automotive distributor with exceptional people in place to ensure the brand’s growth in Oceania.”
The mid-sized crossover SUV ATTO 3 will include two versions, with ranges of 320kms and 420kms respectively, according to WLTP condition. In 2023, two new BEV models will join the line-up with a further two models – a mix of battery electric and plug-in hybrid electrics – to launch in 2024.
In total, five different models will hit the local market from 2022 to 2025, ensuring a comprehensive offering in each segment. We understand a plug-in hybrid ute is part of the product roadmap.
Core to the BYD electric range of vehicles is the Blade Battery. A significant point of innovative difference that has put BYD on the map. The pioneering design allows for increased energy, storage capacity and greater range, as its construction accommodates a more significant number of cells than a conventional Lithium-Iron phosphate battery.
The Blade Battery has been subjected to rigorous testing, including the infamous ‘nail penetration test’, designed to simulate an internal short circuit that causes fire. Throughout testing, the Blade Battery retained a low surface temperature, emitting no smoke or flames.
“Specific vehicle and dealer information will be released shortly” states Willmot, “however, we can confirm the ATTO 3 will be eligible for the current full EV Clean Car Rebate of $8,625.” “There has already been significant enquiry regarding BYD vehicles in New Zealand and prospective buyers are invited to register their interest online at www.bydauto.co.nz.”
BYD Auto is the automotive subsidiary of BYD Co Ltd, a multinational, high-tech company recognised as the largest producer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in the world, with a product portfolio incorporating electric and plug-in hybrid cars, buses, trucks, sky-rail, forklifts and cutting-edge rechargeable battery production.
