BYD models gun for 2024 WCOTY titles

BYD models are eyeing to take home honors at the 2024 World Car of the Year.

One of the Top 10 finalists picked by the prestigious award-giving body is the BYD Seal.

It will go against other contenders in the list namely the Ford Bronco (which is set to be introduced in the Philippine market soon), Hyundai Kona (nameplate once available locally), Kia EV9, Mazda CX-90, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Prius, Volkswagen ID.7, Volvo EX30.

Aside from the Seal, the BYD Dolphin is also one of the top five finalists in the 2024 World Urban Car category.

As finalists in their respective categories, the two are also automatically eligible for the 2024 World Car Design of the Year award.

The BYD Atto 3 subcompact crossover have joined the Seal and Dolphin in the initial 36-car list of 2024 World Car Awards qualifiers, making BYD one of only two brands to have three eligible entries for this year’s World Car of the Year prize.

“We proudly welcome the inclusion of the BYD Seal and the Dolphin in the World Car of the Year’s finalists for 2024,” Mobility Access Philippines Ventures, Incorporated (MAPVI) President Antonio Zara III said.

“To have two models in top contention in this year’s awards is a notable feat while having three in the original eligibility list speaks volumes about BYD as a brand and as a global leader in the New Energy Vehicle space.”

Zara noted that among the three BYD models that were  shortlisted, the Atto 3 and Dolphin are already available in the country at BYD Cars Philippines dealerships.

“Both represent BYD's core brand advantages in today's local market - innovation, technology, safety, range, and accessibility. Reinforced by the Ayala Corporation’s target of having 160 EV charging stations installed this year, BYD electric vehicles are now becoming practical, sustainable mobility solutions for a growing number of Filipino car buyers.”

Quick look at BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin is a five-seat compact hatchback that features short overhangs and a 2,700-millimeter wheelbase, a 345-liter rear cargo capacity that can grow up to 1,310 liters when the rear 60:40 split rear seats are folded.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The vehicle’s electric motor can dish out up to 94 horsepower (hp) and 180 Newton-meters of torque. It is mated to a battery that lets it cover as much as 405 kilometers (km) based on New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standards.

Its features — which include a 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Rear Collision Warning — made it earn a five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program.

The BYD Dolphin is said to be the most affordable all-electric subcompact hatchback available in the local market today with its P1.398-million price tag.

BYD Atto 3 specs

Meanwhile, the BYD Atto 3 boasts a unique gym-inspired interior highlighting new materials and modern design.

Sharing the same BYD e-platform 3.0 with the Dolphin, the Atto 3 offers a roomy cabin amid its proportions.

It comes with a12.8-inch intelligent rotating infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple Carplay, and Android Auto just like the BYD Dolphin.

The BYD Atto 3 is also equipped with a Blade Battery Technology that gives it a range of up to 480 kilometers (depending on the trim). Powering the vehicle is its electric mill that can deliver 201 hp and 310 Nm of pulling power.

The Philippine-spec BYD Atto 3 is available in two variants: Dynamic (priced at P1.598 million) and Premium (marketed with a P1.798 million price tag). The former has a range of 410 kilometers while the latter can do 480 kms. In addition, the top-spec has 18-inch wheels and a panoramic sunroof.

Moreover, the BYD Atto 3 Premium also comes with seven airbags, ISOFIX-ready rear seats, and an automatic emergency braking system with front and rear collision warning system — which earned a five-star safety rating from the European New Car Assessment Program.

Photos from AC Motors

Also read:

BYD leads global EV sales race anew

BYD Atto3 now available in PH, priced from P1.598-M

BYD Atto3 powered by ‘one of world’s safest batteries’