BYD announces four new EVs for the Australian market

Chinese carmaker BYD is set to expand its Australian vehicle lineup with four new models, including two city-focused electric vehicles and two hybrid SUVs, scheduled for release between November 2025 and early 2026.

New model lineup

BYD ATTO 1 and ATTO 2

The BYD Atto 1 is a compact city-focused electric hatchback, previously launched in Europe as the Dolphin Surf and in China as the Seagull. Globally, it has sold over one million units already and is expected to be among the most affordable EVs in Australia once launched.

The BYD Atto 2 is a slightly larger hatchback EV, offering additional features, greater battery capacity, and versatility for everyday driving. Both models are aimed at urban commuters seeking modern design and practical performance.

Rivals for new BYD EVs

In the Australian market, the BYD Atto 1 will primarily compete with entry-level electric vehicles such as the GWM Ora and MG4. The BYD Atto 2 is expected to take on compact electric SUVs such as the MG S5 EV, Chery E5, and the Leapmotor B10, positioning it as a mid-tier option for buyers looking for more space and features than the smallest city EVs.

BYD SEALION 5 and SEALION 8

While the Chinese brand is bringing small affordable EVs at one end, it’s also planning for larger hybrid SUVs to cater to Australia’s most popular segments. 

The BYD Sealion 5 is a mid-sized SUV that utilises BYD’s dual-mode intelligent (DM-i) technology. It combines an electric platform with a petrol-hybrid option, providing extended range and flexibility. The Sealion 6 PHEV currently also offers DM-i technology. 

In China, the Sealion 5 (sold as the Song Pro) features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 173 kW and a 0–100 km/h time of 8.3 seconds. Buyers can choose between 12.9 kWh and 18.3 kWh battery packs, offering electric driving ranges of 61 km to 94 km (WLTP). 

Standard features include LED “dragon” headlights, a 12.8-inch multimedia touchscreen, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Cargo capacity is 407 litres, expanding to 1,430 litres with the rear seats folded.

The BYD Sealion 8 will be BYD’s largest SUV for the Australian market, configured as a seven-seater plug-in hybrid. 

Overseas specifications indicate that it features a larger battery pack for extended electric range, multiple driving modes, and a tech-forward cabin with a touchscreen of up to 15.6 inches, wireless phone charging, and smartphone integration. The Sealion 8 is expected to focus on family practicality, offering spacious seating, flexible cargo space, and modern safety features. It is likely to combine performance and efficiency in line with other large family-oriented plug-in hybrids in overseas markets.

Expected pricing

BYD has not confirmed official Australian pricing for its upcoming models, but industry sources and overseas data provide an indication of where the vehicles may be positioned.

• BYD Atto 1

The Atto 1, the smallest of BYD’s EVs, is expected to start below $30,000 before on-road costs, making it likely the cheapest electric vehicle in Australia. For comparison, the current BYD Dolphin begins at $29,990, while the GWM Ora starts at $34,490. 

• BYD Atto 2

The slightly larger Atto 2 is anticipated to launch between $35,000 and $40,000 drive-away, undercutting the mid-sized Atto 3 ($39,990) and competing with rivals such as the MG S5, Chery E5, and Leapmotor B10, which are priced around $39,000–$40,000.

• BYD Sealion 5

BYD’s Sealion 5 plug-in hybrid SUV is sold in China for ¥102,800 (roughly AU$21,800), but local pricing will be higher. Industry estimates suggest an Australian launch price of $50,000–$60,000, positioning it against the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the Toyota RAV4 PHEV (expected to be released in 2026), and BYD’s own Sealion 6.

• BYD Sealion 8

The largest model, the Sealion 8, a seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV, is expected to cost over $65,000, targeting buyers seeking a larger family PHEV, and competing with vehicles such as the Kia Sorento PHEV and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.

BYD is expected to reveal official Australian prices and specifications closer to each model’s local launch, starting with the Atto 1 and Atto 2 in November 2025.

Current BYD range in Australia

With these additions, BYD’s Australian lineup will include:

• BYD Shark 6
• BYD Sealion 6
• BYD Sealion 7
• BYD Dolphin
• BYD Seal
• BYD Atto 3

Availability

Pre-orders for the new models will open later this month. Interested customers can register through BYD Australia’s website: bydautomotive.com.au.