BYD Automotive is broadening its lineup of electric SUVs in the Australian market again. BYD Australia has recently introduced two new models to its lineup—the compact Atto 2 SUV and the spacious seven-seat Sealion 8.
BYD has officially confirmed the Atto 2 for the Australian market, with local deliveries expected to commence in the final quarter of 2025. While official pricing is yet to be revealed, it’s anticipated the Atto 2 will fall in the $30,000 to $35,000 range—slotting in below the larger Atto 3, which currently kicks off at $39,990 before on-road costs.
Meanwhile, the upcoming Sealion 8, BYD’s new seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV, is projected to compete directly with the Mazda CX-80 PHEV and Kia Sorento PHEV in terms of pricing. It is likely to be positioned at a premium over the long-standing Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which holds the title of Australia’s longest-selling seven-seat plug-in hybrid and is due for an update later in 2025.
BYD Australia’s Head of Product, Sajid Hasan, told the Drive that the brand’s existing lineup of six vehicles, with two more expected to be added in the next twelve months, would still fall short of providing the broad market coverage the brand is aiming for. “It’s going to grow a lot more from here,” he noted, adding that beyond the Atto 2 and Sealion 8, details on further upcoming models remain under wraps for now.
The Atto 2 is built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and incorporates advanced Cell-to-Body (CTB) construction designed to boost chassis stiffness and improve crash safety. Higher-spec models receive additional features such as rear air vents, while both variants come equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, NFC digital key access, adaptive cruise control, and either a standard reversing camera or a full 360-degree camera setup will be available depending on the trim level.
The Sealion 8 draws its foundation from the BYD Tang L available in China. For Australian customers, the SUV will come with a choice between two plug-in hybrid powertrains: the front-wheel-drive DM-i (Intelligence) and the all-wheel-drive DM-p (Performance). It’s anticipated that local models will also offer optional features such as a tow bar with a two-ton towing capacity, up to nine airbags for enhanced occupant protection, and adaptive suspension for a smoother ride.
BYD Automotive has recently assumed control of its vehicle distribution in Australia, taking over from the previous importer, EV Direct. Globally recognized as the largest producer of new energy vehicles, BYD accounts for approximately 30% of NEVs sold in China.
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