Top-spec BYD eMAX 7 vs Mid-Spec Atto 3: Which Electric BYD To Buy Under Rs 30 Lakh?

BYD has recently expanded its India lineup with the updated iteration of their e6 MPV, joining an impressive roster that now includes three electric vehicles – the Seal sedan, eMAX7 MPV, and Atto 3 SUV. 

In this article, we'll delve into a comparison between the top-spec Superior variant of the eMAX7 and the mid-spec Premium variant of the Atto 3. While these models aren’t direct segment competitors, they sit in a similar price range. So if you were thinking of buying an EV around the Rs 30 lakh mark, and are open to any bodystyle, this comparison is for you.

Let's get started.

Price

The BYD Atto 3 is offered in three trims – Dynamic, Premium and Superior while the eMAX7 gets two different variants, namely Premium and Superior which are further offered in either a 6-seater or 7-seater layout.

As we see in the table above, the mid-spec Premium variant of the Atto 3 is priced quite close to the fully equipped 7-seater Superior variant of the eMAX7, with only a Rs 5,000 difference. We’ll overlook this minor price gap to dive deeper into an in-depth comparison of these two electric cars, exploring what they have to offer in the cabin and underneath the hood. 

Dimensions

Starting with the measuring tape, we have to pull it quite a bit more for the eMAX7 as it clearly stretches longer, as expected for an MPV, with a greater overall length and wheelbase than the Atto 3 SUV. It’s also the taller of the two, though it loses out in width, being slightly slimmer than the Atto 3.

The striking difference appears in the boot space. With the eMAX7 designed to seat more passengers, its boot offers less than half the space found in the Atto 3 with all seats upright. However, if we fold down the rear seats for a fair comparison, the eMAX7 actually edges out the Atto 3, offering more luggage capacity.

Features

If you have looked through the above table and wondered who’s more superior or who’s more premium, let's break it down simply. BYD has equipped both vehicles with a similar set of features, offering common elements like infotainment systems and NFC card keys.

However, the mid-spec Atto 3 takes a slight edge over the eMAX7 in a few cases, adding to its premium feel with one extra airbag, one-more inch larger wheels and two additional speakers. Even in terms of just pure aesthetics, the Atto 3's cabin looks a lot more chic than the eMAX 7's rather simple (in contrast) cabin styling. 

Powertrain

Moving on to what’s underneath the hoods of these EVs, the eMAX7 packs a larger battery, offering an extended claimed range and shorter charging time—a notable advantage for longer inter-city drives. Meanwhile, the Atto 3 holds its own despite a smaller battery pack, though it does require a bit more charging time. Both models deliver similar outputs, but considering that the Atto 3 is lighter, it’ll feel quicker in the real-world when you hit the accelerator.

All things considered, each of these cars caters to unique needs, with the Atto 3 as an SUV and the eMAX7 leaning more towards a spacious passenger vehicle. Both also have segment-specific rivals to contend with. However, if we were to match a vehicle to a buyer, both the vehicles are more or less inseparable in terms of features and powertrain. 

However, we would recommend the Atto 3 if you don’t need the added practicality of the third row and want a quirky looking cabin. But in case you’ll find yourself carrying more than 5 people, or just need a really comfy second row of seating, then the eMAX 7 would be the right pick for you. Let us know your thoughts on both cars in the comments!