Chinese automaker BYD is best known as an electric car brand, but all of its top sellers still rely on an electrified combustion engine. After the Seal U and the Seal 6, the compact crossover Atto 2 will soon add a plug-in hybrid variant to the pure electric model.
The new addition is set to reach European markets in early 2026 and addresses drivers who are not yet ready to fully commit to electric mobility—primarily due to range anxiety. With a price point of roughly €30,000, the Atto 2 DM-i is expected to be a mainstream booster for BYD registrations as the electric car market is stagnating and PHEVs are gaining traction again.
Focus on electric driving
The plugged driveline is based on the same 4.31-meter platform as the battery-electric Atto 2 but introduces BYD’s “Dual Mode Intelligent” hybrid system. This prioritizes zero-emission driving and primarily puts the combustion engine in a generator role for the battery pack.
The company says the setup allows for an electric-only range of up to 90 kilometers, depending on the version. Like the Seal 6, two variants are planned, though details about capacity, output, charging performance, and fast charging capability remain under wraps. Combined range across both power sources for the large battery is quoted at just over 1,000 kilometers.
Market for itself
Of course, BYD claims the Atto 2 DM-i will deliver class-leading electric efficiency and seamless transitions between power modes. Interestingly, the small crossover will have the market to itself, as current competitors are either nonexistent or have abandoned the smaller PHEV path. Like the Renault Captur, to name but one.
It remains to be seen whether BYD can indeed succeed where others stumbled and persuade customers in lower segments to pay a premium for decent-sized battery technology. Or whether drivers with more budget are willing to downscale to a smaller car.
All in all, it leaves the Atto 2 DM-i effectively with an unusual advantage in a segment known for fierce price pressure. If the low running costs can be combined with CO2 emissions below 50 g/km, it might appeal to the self-employed in Belgium who can enjoy full deductibility.
New grille
Externally, the plug-in hybrid adopts subtle design cues to differentiate it from its electric counterpart. A larger central grille, revised lower bumper with new trim elements, and the removal of side vents in the front wings give the crossover a more conventional appearance.
The model also gains new badging and an exclusive “Midnight Blue” exterior finish. Inside, no significant structural changes are anticipated, though trim and software updates tailored to the hybrid system are likely.
Fleet Europe Days
The European debut for the Atto 2 DM-i is scheduled for this month at the Fleet Europe Days in Luxembourg, followed by a media introduction in November. Pre-sales are expected to begin before year-end, with the first customer deliveries planned for the first quarter of 2026.
Without a doubt, the model will be on display at the Brussels Motor Show.
Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but benchmarks can be found within BYD’s own lineup. The fully electric Atto 2 currently starts from € 29,990 in Belgium with a 45.1-kWh battery (the larger 60-kWh version is not offered).
If the hybrid follows a similar strategy to the Seal U DM-i—which undercuts its electric sibling—the Atto 2 DM-i could become one of the most affordable plug-in crossovers in Europe.
