Japan to start selling BYD Atto 3 in January 2023; up to 485 km range, price equals RM 141k

The BYD Atto 3 EV SUV will be launching in Japan come January 2023, as the world's largest EV maker continues its globetrotting streak after the model's made available in more than 10 countries worldwide; Malaysia included (soon).

In a Reuters report, the company said that they'll roll out the Atto 3 in Japan beginning 31-January. Prices start from JPY 4.4 million (~RM 141,586), and will be the first of three models to be launched there next year. 

This price range places the Atto 3 in a very competitive price range, especially in the EV SUV arena. The next step up would be the Toyota bZ4X, which starts from JPY 6 million yen (~RM 191k).

Also read: No longer a speculation, Toyota bZ4X confirmed to launch in Malaysia in 2023

BYD Japan is in the works of setting up dealers in 22 cities, with the aim of covering all 47 prefectures with over 100 dealerships by the end of 2025, said Atsuki Tokufuji, who serves as BYD Auto Japan Inc.'s president.  

"We hope that we can make our presence felt little by little as we work toward carbon neutrality and as our customers demand a variety of choices," he said.

Also read: BYD Rever Thailand explains why Thais lined up overnight to buy the BYD Atto 3

Juiced by a 59 kWh 'Blade' lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) battery (different capacity from the cars sold in Singapore and Thailand), that feeds power to a 204 PS/310 Nm electric motor. Range is a WLTP-claimed 485 km. 

Kit count includes LED lighting all around, a panoramic sunroof, and the full complement of ADAS. Charging times for the Japan-spec model yet to be specified. 

Also read: Preliminary specs for BYD Atto 3 in Malaysia; priced from RM 150k, up to 480 km range, short waiting period