BYD has begun accepting pre-orders for the 2026 Atto 3 Evo electric SUV in Australia ahead of its expected arrival in showrooms in the coming months.

Final pricing for the updated model has yet to be announced. However, BYD has introduced a pre-order programme requiring a AUD 1,000 (US$ 705) deposit from customers wishing to secure the vehicle before Australian pricing and specifications are confirmed.

As previously reported, the updated Atto 3 range will be offered in two variants, with notable differences in their powertrains and battery technology.

The entry-level Atto 3 Evo Dynamic features a 60.5 kWh battery based on a 400-volt electrical architecture.

Power is delivered to the front wheels by a single electric motor producing 150 kW and 310 Nm of torque, providing a WLTP-rated driving range of 420 km.

These specifications match those of the current Atto 3 Premium, including the same battery capacity and motor output, while representing an upgrade over the outgoing Atto 3 Essential, which uses a 49.9 kWh battery.

The Atto 3 Evo Premium introduces more substantial changes, featuring a larger 74.9 kWh battery and an 800-volt electrical system.

Unlike the Dynamic, the Premium uses a rear-mounted electric motor producing 230 kW and 380 Nm of torque, with a WLTP-rated driving range of 510 km.

The differences in battery architecture also affect charging performance. According to the company, the 400 V Dynamic can be charged from 10% to 80% in 41 minutes using a DC fast charger at up to 88 kW, while the 800 V Premium completes the same charge in 25 minutes at up to 220 kW.

Preliminary information on the pre-order page indicates that the Dynamic will be available in Ski White, Harbour Grey and Cosmos Black. The Premium adds Atlantis Grey as an additional exterior colour option.

Both variants are equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, although each features a different wheel design. Grey is the only available interior colour for both models.

The exterior styling of both variants appears identical, except for a Design badge on the front fenders of the Atto 3 Evo Dynamic, which is absent on the Premium.

At present, however, the BYD Australia website displays the updated Premium only in left-hand-drive specification for overseas markets.

The outgoing Atto 3 range is priced from AUD 39,990 before on-road costs for the Essential and AUD 44,990 before on-road costs for the Premium.

Although pricing for the updated model has not yet been confirmed, the brand has scope to position the Atto 3 Evo between the smaller Atto 2, priced from AUD 31,990 to AUD 35,990, and the larger Sealion 7, priced from AUD 54,990 to AUD 63,990, with all prices excluding on-road costs.

The updated Atto 3 Evo will also compete with rivals including the Geely EX5, priced from AUD 41,990 before on-road costs, the Forthing Taikon 5, priced from AUD 38,990 drive-away, and the Leapmotor C10, priced from AUD 45,888 before on-road costs. Market conditions may influence the brand's final pricing strategy.