KATHMANDU: Buyers looking for an electric SUV in the price range of around Rs 4.5 million may find themselves having to choose between the BYD Atto 2 Essential and the Leapmotor B03X.
While both are compact SUVs, they differ in terms of battery capacity, range, motor power, and cargo space.
The BYD Atto 2 Essential is priced at Rs 4,595,000, distributed by Cimex Inc. Although the official price of the Leapmotor B03X is Rs 4,699,000, Shangrila Motors is offering a discount of Rs 200,000, bringing the selling price to Rs 4,499,000.
The B03X, which is positioned to compete directly with the Atto 2, has only recently arrived in Nepal and has not yet garnered significant attention.
Both models, manufactured by Chinese brands, are attracting attention in the international market as well. The B03X has recently entered the European market.
Can it truly become a competitor to the BYD Atto 2? Let us compare the two.
Battery and range
Battery and range are the primary factors customers consider when purchasing an electric vehicle; in this regard, the B03X appears to have stronger specifications. The B03X features a 53 kWh battery, offering a range of 382 km according to WLTP testing. Similarly, the Atto 2 Essential is equipped with a 45.12 kWh battery, capable of covering 312 km (WLTP) on a single charge.
The B03X’s battery is 7.88 kWh larger than that of the Atto 2, and it also offers a range that is approximately 70 km more.
Motor power and torque
In terms of peak motor power, the B03X takes the lead, equipped with a 145 kW motor. All variants of the Atto 2 feature a 100 kW motor. However, the Atto 2 leads in terms of torque: the B03X produces 200 Nm of torque, whereas the Atto 2 Essential delivers 290 Nm.
It takes the B03X 8.6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, while the Atto 2 Essential takes approximately 9 seconds to achieve the same.
Difference in ground clearance
Given the condition of roads in Nepal, ground clearance cannot be overlooked. The Atto 2 Essential offers a ground clearance of 200 mm, compared to 190 mm for the B03X; thus, the Atto 2 holds a 10 mm advantage. Higher ground clearance helps reduce the risk of the vehicle’s underbody scraping or striking the ground on uneven roads, high speed breakers, or rural tracks.
However, a vehicle’s on-road performance and handling can also be influenced by factors such as the suspension setup, vehicle overhang, and the weight of the passengers.
Boot space
The B03X offers an impressive boot space of up to 510 liters, whereas the Atto 2 has a capacity of 400 liters.
The larger boot space of the B03X can be advantageous for those traveling long distances with a significant amount of luggage. Nevertheless, prospective buyers should verify how and from where the manufacturer has measured the boot space before making a purchase.
Conclusion
The Atto 2 Essential is an electric vehicle that offers higher ground clearance and greater torque. On the other hand, the B03X features a larger battery, a longer range, higher motor power, and more generous boot space.
However, comparing prices alone is not enough. Factors such as battery warranty, charging capabilities, after-sales service, the availability of spare parts, and resale value are equally important.
Therefore, for customers seeking a lower price point, higher ground clearance, and substantial torque, the Atto 2 Essential could be an attractive option. Conversely, those who prioritize a larger battery, longer range, higher motor power, and greater boot space might prefer the B03X.
