Second-Generation BYD Atto 1 Undergoes Major Powertrain Overhaul to RWD
The second generation of the BYD Seagull, marketed in Indonesia as the Atto 1, has been introduced in China with several major changes. This includes the electric motor being moved to the rear wheels, transforming the drivetrain to rear-wheel drive (RWD) and simultaneously providing space for a front boot.
According to reports from Carnewschina, the vehicle’s appearance follows filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and previously circulated exterior design sketches. Previously reported cabin sketches indicate that this five-passenger car no longer utilises a traditional instrument panel and features changes to the chassis, drivetrain, and cabin components.
Recent photographs from promotional photo shoots have also sparked speculation that higher-specification variants may support BYD’s second-generation Blade Battery and Flash Charging technology. However, BYD has not yet officially announced the power output or charging durations.
Regulatory data from the MIIT identifies the motor under model code TZ164XYB, produced by Zhengzhou BYD Auto Co., Ltd., with a power output of 95 kW or 127 hp. This increase in power raises the recorded maximum speed of the Atto 1 to 150 kilometres per hour.
The chassis components have also undergone changes. The torsion beam rear suspension found in the previous model has been replaced with an independent multi-link suspension system.
The car also utilises wider tyres, specifically 205/60 R16, mounted on 16-inch double five-spoke alloy wheels. For comparison, the previous model used 165 mm and 175 mm tyres.
Moving the drivetrain to the rear creates space in the front compartment to serve as a front boot, or ‘frunk’.
A front boot remains uncommon for small electric vehicles in China priced below 100,000 yuan (approximately Rp250 million), although BYD has not yet announced the official capacity of this compartment. In Indonesia, the Atto 1 is currently sold starting from Rp199 million for its entry-level variant.
The redesigned centre console features physical toggle-style buttons below the air conditioning vents, a wireless phone charger, and two vertically arranged cup holders.
Regarding the exterior, semi-hidden mechanical door handles replace the previous flush pop-out handles. The rear features separate taillights positioned beneath a large roof spoiler, along with an integrated lower diffuser.
LiDAR hardware is also available as an optional roof-mounted feature. This device supports BYD’s Level 2 DiPilot 300 (God’s Eye B) advanced driver-assistance system.
BYD has not yet announced the official price or the launch date for the second-generation Atto 1. It remains unknown whether this second generation will also be introduced to the Indonesian market.