BYD Atto 8 PHEV 7 seater launched

Recharged, 16/04/2026 2 min read

BYD has introduced its new seven-seater Atto 8 SUV plug-in hybrid at a media event in Johannesburg on 15 April. Aimed at urban and long-distance travel, the Atto 8 will come in two variants, the Premium (DM-i) priced at R1 059 900 and the Performance (DM-p) priced at R1 259 900.

The Atto 8 joins its existing line-up of PHEVs in SA, such as the popular Shark 6 bakkie, priced at R989 900, the Sealion 5 at R509 900 and the Sealion 6 at R639 900.

These four PHEVs are sold alongside its EVs: the Atto 3, Dolphin, Dolphin Surf, Sealion 7 and Seal. Interestingly, BYD SA shared its sales figures for the first time for March 2026, selling a total of 589 units last month.

Steve Chang, MD of BYD Auto South Africa says the Atto 8 “combines innovation, space and performance in a way that feels both premium and accessible, whether you are navigating the city or travelling with family over long distances”.

“As a seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV, the Atto 8 sets a new benchmark in its category. It delivers a driving experience that is not only powerful and efficient, but also comfortable, intelligent and reassuring in every scenario,” adds Chang.

The Atto 8 is powered by BYD’s fifth-generation DM Super Hybrid Technology, with the Premium FWD variant promising up to 892km of combined range and 75km of pure electric range from its 19kWh battery.

The Performance Smart SWD edition promises up to 844km of combined range and 130km of pure electric range from its 35.6kWh battery.

The Premium has a total combined output of 205kW of power and 315Nm of torque, while the Performance variant has 359kW of power and 360Nm of torque.

Fuel consumption is claimed to be 6.9L/100km on the Premium and 7.8L/100km on the Performance, which sounds good for a seven-seater vehicle.

Both variants support 11kW of AC charging, but wall charging boxes are available as an optional extra.

Other technology related features include a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, 10.25-inch driver instrument panel, front 50W wireless charger, 12V power interface, GPS navigation, CarPlay and Android Auto, 4G connectivity, and USB-C and A charging ports.