BYD launches attack: the Atto 3 at €349/month

The world’s leading manufacturer of electric cars accelerates its assault in Europe before the disappearance of the eco bonus in France.

No more time to lose. Following France’s decision to cease automatic disbursement of the eco bonus in 2024 for electric cars under 47,000 euros, but to condition it on a production score. In other words, a form of (necessary) protectionism that will penalize cars produced on the other side of the globe and imported into Europe by ship with a dramatic carbon footprint.

BYD has understood this and must therefore hurry to sell the units produced in spring, before France’s decision, which have just arrived on European soil. After December 31, 2023, it will become more difficult to get rid of them. BYD is also considering building a factory in Europe to increase efficiency, reduce production and delivery times, and gain acceptance.

The problem is that the small SUV Atto 3 is not cheap: 43,690 euros for the base model, which is already more than a Tesla Model 3 — much more efficient, media-friendly, and popular… The trick relies on long-term rental offers (LLD) where the customer targets a fixed price.

The BYD Atto 3 is thus offered at 349 euros per month, with an initial payment reduced to 0 euro after applying the bonus. The offer is based on a 36-month (3-year) term and 30,000 km, resulting in a total cost of 35 x 349 = 12,215 euros. That’s 28% of the initial sale price. Considering depreciation of an electric car over three years, and the speed at which technology evolves, buying an electric vehicle really makes no sense.

There is one important parameter to consider: the BYD Atto 3 is really not a reference in terms of driving comfort, amenities, and connectivity… But if you’re looking for an affordable daily car with charging costs certainly lower than a thermal vehicle, then you might consider this offer.

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