Chinese automotive giant BYD is set to launch its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) yet in South Africa – the Atto 1 – with an expected price tag below R400,000 next month.
According to a report by CarMag, this price point (suggested by Chinese sources despite BYD SA being "tight-lipped") would position the Atto 1 (known as the Dolphin Mini/Dolphin Surf elsewhere) as a contender for South Africa's most affordable EV title, potentially matching the current entry-level Dayun S5.
Vehicle Specs & Strategy:
The Atto 1 will feature BYD's blade battery technology.
It will be offered in multiple versions with driving ranges of 220km, 310km, and 322km.
This launch is part of BYD's aggressive expansion in South Africa, where it already offers six models (including hybrids like the Shark 6 bakkie and Sealion 6, and the pure electric Sealion 7 SUV).
Market Expansion:
BYD plans a significant dealership expansion, aiming to grow from 20 outlets by end-2025 to 30-35 by 2026.
General Manager Steve Chang stated the goal is to "educate and cultivate" the South African EV market, positioning BYD early for the transition despite current challenges.
The company sees South Africa as a crucial market, being the largest automotive hub in Africa.
Market Context:
New Energy Vehicle (NEV - including full EVs and plug-in hybrids) sales in SA showed strong growth, doubling from 7,782 units in 2023 to 15,611 units in 2024 (Naamsa data), though still a small fraction of total car sales.
BYD faces competition from other Chinese brands like GAC, Chery, and GWM entering the SA market.
Key challenges hindering faster EV adoption include limited charging infrastructure, unstable power supply, and high import duties compared to traditional vehicles.
Chang emphasized BYD's commitment: "South Africa is actually one of the most important automotive markets in the southern hemisphere... It’s a market that we have to look at and see how we can develop."
