BYD has unveiled its new flagship electric SUV, the seven-seat ATTO 8, claiming the vehicle can charge from 10 to 97 per cent in just nine minutes. The Chinese carmaker revealed the model at the Paris Motor Show, with European sales set to begin early next year.

The ATTO 8 debuts BYD's second-generation Blade Battery in Europe, paired with new Flash Charging technology. Despite housing a substantial 115kWh battery, BYD says the SUV can go from 10 to 70 per cent charge in only five minutes. Even in extreme cold of -30°C, the company claims a 20 to 97 per cent charge takes just 12 minutes.

However, these rapid charging times are only achievable using BYD's dedicated Flash Charging network rather than standard public rapid chargers. The firm plans to roll out 3,000 Flash Charging stations across Europe by the end of 2027, with the UK's first units arriving this year. BYD executive vice-president Stella Li described the technology as "the breakthrough for EVs that everyone has been waiting for," saying it allows recharging as fast as refuelling and eliminates range anxiety.

The ATTO 8 will come in two variants sharing the same battery pack. The rear-wheel-drive Design version features a single 456bhp motor, a claimed range of 405 miles, and a 0-62mph time of eight seconds. The all-wheel-drive Excellence doubles up on motors for a combined 764bhp, cutting the sprint time to 4.6 seconds, though range drops slightly to 374 miles.

Measuring 5,040mm long, 1,996mm wide and 1,760mm tall, the ATTO 8 becomes BYD's largest model, sitting above the ATTO 2, ATTO 3, SEALION 5 and SEAL U. Styling highlights include slim daytime running lights, matrix LED headlights, illuminated rear badging and a panoramic glass roof.

The cabin houses three rows of leather seating, with heating, ventilation and massage functions extending beyond the front seats to the outer second-row positions. Three-zone climate control is included, while third-row passengers get their own air conditioning adjustments. Technology features a 15.6-inch touchscreen running Google Built-in, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 26-inch head-up display, wireless charging, a temperature-controlled fridge, and sound systems with either 10 or 21 speakers.

Boot space totals 270 litres with all seats in use, expanding to 1,960 litres with the rear rows folded, plus a 136-litre front storage compartment. European deliveries are expected in the first quarter of 2027.

BYD also showed an updated Dolphin Surf hatchback in Paris, now offered with a five-seat layout alongside its existing four-seat configuration, featuring a larger touchscreen and additional comfort equipment.

Source: The Independent

See also our earlier piece: EU to Cap Chinese Hybrid Car Imports at 350,000 a Year