BYD cuts Australia’s cheapest new car price to $19,990
Australia’s cheapest new car is now BYD’s Atto 1 Essential, priced at $19,990 driveaway—a figure that undercuts every other model available, including petrol-powered competitors. This positions the electric hatchback as a direct rival to Kia’s Picanto, which starts at $19,190 before on-road costs lift its total above $22,000 in most states. The price reduction represents a saving of between $5,772 and $7,070, as much as 26 per cent off the regular price. The only other car previously priced at this level, MG’s MG3 Vibe, will end its promotion on September 30, leaving BYD’s offer as the sole option under $20,000 without an expiration date.
Stephen Collins, BYD Australia’s Chief Operating Officer, framed the move as a response to cost-of-living pressure. “At a time when Australian families are carefully considering every household expense, we’re committed to making vehicle ownership more attainable,” said Mr Collins. “The BYD Atto 1 at $19,990 driveaway demonstrates our commitment to delivering outstanding value without compromising on technology, safety or quality.” The company emphasizes that the lower price does not affect the vehicle’s technology, safety standards, or build quality.
The base model retains its 30kWh Blade battery, a lithium iron phosphate unit without dedicated cooling, paired with a 65kW electric motor that delivers 220km of claimed range under WLTP testing. Charging capabilities reach 65kW DC and 11kW AC. Standard features include a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and ANCAP five-star safety certification from 2025 testing. Adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and lane-keep assist are included, though metallic paint remains an optional upgrade costing $500.
The discount applies exclusively to the base model; the Atto 1 Premium remains priced at $27,990 plus on-road costs. This variant includes a larger 43.2kWh battery, extending range to 310km, a 115kW motor, and premium features such as a surround-view camera, wireless phone charging, and heated front seats. The Atto 1’s dimensions, 3,990mm long, 1,720mm wide, and 1,590mm tall, align it with competitors like the Toyota Yaris and Mazda 2.
Since its launch in 2026, the Atto 1 has sold 3,838 units year-to-date, ranking it third among micro or light cars in Australia behind the MG3 (5,518 sales) and Kia Picanto (4,172 sales). Despite its higher entry price of $26,490, Geely’s EX2 has outsold the Atto 1 since its arrival in July. Further competition may emerge with GAC’s upcoming Aion UT, a 44kWh EV expected to offer 320km range before year-end.
BYD’s pricing strategy follows its broader expansion in Australia. The brand entered the market in 2022 and has since introduced eight new models or variants, with two more, including a plug-in hybrid Atto 2 SUV and the M9 family-oriented people-mover, scheduled for arrival by October. The company has accelerated dealership growth, opening roughly one new sales center per week, with a focus on regional areas.
By year’s end, BYD expects to surpass 150 dealerships nationwide. The timing of the discount coincides with China’s recent Guidelines on Overseas Competition and Compliance Construction, which urge automakers to avoid competing purely on price in export markets. While BYD’s move aligns with broader industry trends, where Chinese brands are aggressively cutting prices in Australia, it also reflects a strategic effort to secure market share before local competitors adjust their pricing.
