In an unprecedented expansion to its range, Chinese manufacturer BYD has announced the introduction of the Atto 1 and Atto 2, which will be launched in November this year, alongside the SEALION 5 and SEALION 8 vehicles, which will make their Australian debuts in early 2026.
From daily city commuters to spacious, hybrid-powered family vehicles, the company says these new models reaffirm BYD’s vision to bring the latest in its world-leading innovation and technology to Australia.
Launched as the Dolphin Surf in Europe and the Seagull in China, the rebranded Atto 1 has already generated enormous interest after selling more than one million units globally.
Designed as a compact, city-focused EV, the Atto 1 delivers nimble performance in a hatchback form, ideal for Australians seeking smart, modern design without the premium price tag. Sitting above it, the Atto 2 is packed with features, blending everyday practicality with advanced battery technology and is designed for drivers who want versatility, safety, and style.
“When it comes to the Atto range, start believing the hype,” COO of BYD Australia, Stephen Collins, said.
“The Atto 1 will be Australia’s most affordable EV by some margin, opening the door for even more Australians to get behind the wheel of their own new energy vehicle.
“As we’ve seen with those incredible sales numbers overseas, we expect really strong pre-order interest locally.”
Meanwhile, the Sealion 5 is perfectly primed for customers seeking value without compromising on the features BYD has become renowned for. A mid-sized SUV powered by BYD’s advanced dual-mode intelligent (DM-i) technology, the Sealion 5 combines the efficiency of an electric platform with extended range and the flexibility of a petrol-hybrid drivetrain.
The highly anticipated Sealion 8 will be BYD’s largest SUV in the Australian market. This seven-seat plug-in hybrid blends performance with a bold modern exterior and a spacious, yet refined tech-forward interior. Designed for growing families, it offers the flexibility, comfort, and capability Australians need, without compromising on efficiency.
“To release this volume of product at such a rapid pace is really unprecedented in my time in the automotive industry,” Collins said.
“With our growing mix of PHEVs and pure EVs, what it proves is that BYD is committed to providing Australian consumers with choice in starting – or continuing – their new energy automotive journeys.”
The Atto 1, Atto 2, Sealion 5 and Sealion 8, add to a growing range, which already includes the Shark 6, Sealion 6, Sealion 7, Dolphin, Seal and Atto 3.