Dean Roscherr from Drive Electric was there when 14 journalists took seven new BYD ATTO 1s over to Waiheke for an Amazing BYD ATTO 1 E-Venture. He came away impressed by both the vehicle and the direction of BYD in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The ATTO 1 proved to be a strong everyday option for families. It handled the hills of Waiheke with ease, offered generous head and legroom, and delivered a smooth and comfortable driving experience. The in-car safety prompts were active and at times enthusiastic, but they reflect the growing role of technology in keeping drivers safe on our roads. As with many new vehicles, the rotary gear selector took a moment to get used to, but quickly became intuitive.
This was Dean’s first time behind the wheel of a BYD and the overall impression was of a solid, safe and well-built vehicle. It was also encouraging to hear BYD’s plans to introduce 15 new models to the New Zealand market in 2026, signalling real momentum for both BYD and the wider EV sector.
A simple but powerful highlight was using the ATTO 1’s Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) capability to boil a kettle and make a cup of tea. Seeing energy flow from the car to power everyday equipment brings the concept of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) to life in a very practical way.
Just as valuable was the opportunity to spend time with Drive Electric members and industry colleagues, strengthening the relationships that will help drive the EV transition forward.
About BYD
Corporate Drive Electric member BYD Auto is committed to the exclusive development of electrified vehicles and – while the ‘early years’ saw the company achieve astonishing maturity as an automaker – today, BYD Auto has fast surpassed its peers in automotive advancement, perfectly in keeping with the company mission of providing technological innovations for a better life. Represented by Ateco Group throughout NZ this leader in sustainable change is set to push the boundaries of electric vehicles in Aotearoa.
Driving innovation through its world class, clean and reliable vehicles, BYD New Zealand will continue to provide zero-emission energy solutions for the New Zealand automotive landscape.
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