KATHMANDU: The updated version of the BYD Atto 1 has been spotted testing in China with a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, indicating a major technology upgrade for the compact electric hatchback. The new model is also expected to offer a driving range of up to 505 km under the CLTC cycle.
Images of an un-camouflaged test vehicle show a LiDAR unit mounted on the roof, which is expected to support BYD’s God’s Eye B (DiPilot 300) advanced driver assistance system. This upgrade moves the Atto 1 from a basic camera-based system to a more advanced ADAS setup powered by the Nvidia Drive Orin chip, capable of delivering 254 TOPS of computing power.
The upgraded system is expected to support features such as automated valet parking and advanced navigation functions for urban and highway driving.
To support the additional hardware and a larger battery pack, BYD has slightly increased the motor output to 60 kW, up from the previous 55 kW. The wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,500 mm.
The update comes as competition in China’s affordable EV segment intensifies. By introducing LiDAR-based technology that was previously limited to premium brands such as Denza and Yangwang, BYD appears to be bringing advanced driver assistance systems to the budget EV segment.
Meanwhile, the BYD Atto 1 has already gained strong traction in Nepal. Introduced in the Nepali market in August, the model has become one of the popular entry-level electric cars in a short period.
