BYD’s New Compact Electric SUV Set for India Launch in 2025: Could It Rival Creta EV and Maruti eVX?
BYD, one of the world's leading electric vehicle manufacturers, is gearing up to expand its EV portfolio in India with the planned launch of a compact electric SUV by the second half of 2025. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise in the Indian market, particularly in the compact SUV segment, BYD is preparing to introduce a new offering that could rival upcoming electric SUVs from Tata, Hyundai, Maruti, and Mahindra. With the possibility of this new model competing directly with the highly anticipated Creta EV and Maruti eVX, BYD’s upcoming electric SUV has the potential to make a strong impact in the Indian EV space.
Currently, BYD offers the Atto 3 and Seal sedan in India, both of which cater to different segments of the electric vehicle market. However, with electrification gaining momentum in the country, the compact SUV segment is expected to see an influx of new electric offerings from several manufacturers. Recognizing this opportunity, BYD has started to evaluate its next move, focusing on the ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh price range, which has the potential to generate significant sales volumes in India.
The automaker is in the process of selecting the most appropriate model for this price-sensitive market, with a few options being shortlisted. According to reports, BYD could showcase this new compact electric SUV as early as January 2025 at the Bharat Mobility Show. This exhibition will offer BYD a platform to gauge public interest and gather feedback from potential buyers, further refining its strategy for the Indian market.
While there is no official confirmation from the company, one of the leading contenders for BYD’s compact electric SUV in India is the Atto 2, also known as Yuan Up in China. The Atto 2 fits well into the compact SUV segment, given its dimensions and feature-rich design. It was launched in China in March 2023, priced at approximately 96,800 yuan (around ₹11.45 lakh).
Measuring 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm, the BYD Atto 2 is perfectly sized for the compact SUV market. Despite its affordable price tag, it does not compromise on style or features, offering a modern and futuristic design that is expected to appeal to Indian buyers. The exterior highlights of the Atto 2 include sleek LED headlamps, daytime running lights (DRLs), a prominent bumper, and a closed-off grille with chrome accents. The side profile features large alloy wheels with an aerodynamic design, thick body cladding, and body-colored door handles. The rear showcases edgy, interconnected tail lamps, a shark fin antenna, and a rear washer and wiper.
Inside, the Atto 2 offers a premium experience with high-tech features such as a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, a head-up display (HUD), ambient lighting, and a wireless charging pad. There is also a panoramic sunroof, an 8-speaker premium sound system, and a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite for added safety. These features align well with what modern buyers expect from a compact electric SUV, making the Atto 2 a strong contender for BYD’s India lineup.
The BYD Atto 2 is powered by a 45.1 kWh battery pack, offering a claimed CLTC range of 401 km on a single charge. In real-world conditions, this range is expected to be around 320 km. The eSUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds, which is competitive for a vehicle in this segment. The Atto 2’s blend of performance, range, and affordability makes it a compelling option for buyers looking for a practical yet stylish electric SUV.
If BYD chooses to launch the Atto 2 in India, it will likely offer a significant value proposition in terms of pricing and features, positioning it as a direct rival to upcoming models like the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, Maruti eVX, and Mahindra’s new born-electric SUVs. With a strong emphasis on range, performance, and premium features, the Atto 2 could capture the attention of the Indian market and challenge the dominance of established players.
As electrification accelerates in India, BYD’s decision to focus on the compact electric SUV segment appears to be a well-timed move. The ₹20 lakh price bracket is expected to be particularly competitive, with several manufacturers targeting this space. By introducing a well-equipped, stylish, and affordable electric SUV, BYD could gain a foothold in this growing segment and attract buyers who are considering EV options from Tata, Maruti, Hyundai, and Mahindra.
The company’s strategy will also depend on how successfully it can create a strong business case for the Indian market, which requires balancing affordability with high-end features and technology. If all goes as planned, BYD’s new compact electric SUV could serve as a strong rival to established brands, offering Indian consumers more choices in the burgeoning EV market.
While precise details of the new BYD electric SUV will only be revealed closer to the launch date, it is clear that BYD is preparing to make a major push in India’s EV sector. With the expected unveiling at the Bharat Mobility Show in January 2025, Indian buyers will get their first look at what could be a game-changing compact electric SUV. Given BYD’s global reputation and experience in the electric vehicle space, the upcoming launch is likely to generate significant interest and could potentially reshape the competitive landscape in the Indian EV market.
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