BYD has released the latest over-the-air (OTA) software update for its Atto 3 electric crossover which brings Android Auto smartphone mirroring, plus other “enhancements”.
Android Auto has been a long-awaited feature among local BYD Atto 3 owners, as they were originally promised it would come as an OTA software update during the fourth quarter of 2022. This was later revised to the second quarter of this year.
At this stage it’s unclear if Atto 3’s implementation of Android Auto smartphone mirroring will be wired or wireless.
The current brochure on the EVDirect website says Android Auto will be available in wireless form from the second quarter of this year, though we’ve reached out to EVDirect for clarification and will update this story once we hear back.
Apple CarPlay was added to the Atto 3 earlier this year, though only in wired form. This latest OTA software update is said to bring “enhanced Apple CarPlay function”.
Other “enhancements” that are said to come with this OTA software update include the following:
- Improved user experience, with enhanced driving comfort
- Synchronised function of bluetooth phone contacts
- Enhanced FM radio experience
- Improved sunroof functionality
BYD has been on a tear over the last few months with recent updates. Recent additions besides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto include mobile app connectivity, native navigation, and conversational voice prompts.
Atto 3
The only vehicle BYD currently sells in Australia is the Atto 3 electric SUV, which was the third top-selling electric vehicle (EV) in 2022 despite deliveries only starting in September.
The BYD Atto 3 is currently priced from $48,011 before on-road costs for the Standard Range, and $51,011 before on-roads for the Extended Range.
The Atto 3 won’t be alone for long as local distributor EVDirect has confirmed the GWM Ora– and MG 4–rivalling Dolphin hatchback is set to arrive around June, and the Tesla Model 3–rivalling Seal sedan is set to arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.
Dolphin 
Seal
Both of these models have been spied in Australia recently.
EVDirect managing director Luke Todd also told CarExpert in late last year it will launch a competitor to the LDV eT60, plus the incoming JAC T9 EV and (potentially) Geely Radar RD6, in 2024.
Mr Todd said this electric pickup has been “designed around Australian conditions”, with both Chinese and Australian engineers working on the project.
Spied BYD plug-in hybrid ute
He added that it’s slightly larger than a Toyota HiLux and can be described as a “sports muscle ute”.
BYD is currently expanding at a rapid pace, rolling out its EVs in Europe, Japan, and Australia – where its Atto 3 is selling in strong numbers after a few launch speed bumps.
In fact, the Warren Buffet-backed EV and battery supplier eclipsed three million EV and PHEV sales globally in November last year.
MORE: Everything BYD Atto 3
