BYD unveils seven-seater EV that charges in just nine minutes
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has unveiled its new flagship ATTO 8 seven-seat SUV at the Paris Motor Show, introducing breakthrough charging technology that could transform electric vehicle practicality. The company claims the vehicle can charge from 10 to 97 per cent in just nine minutes using its new Flash Charging network.
The ATTO 8 represents BYD's entry into the premium large SUV segment and introduces the company's second-generation Blade Battery technology to European markets. The new battery achieves an energy density of 190-210 Wh/kg, a substantial improvement over the first-generation system's 140-150 Wh/kg, and supports 800V high-voltage platforms with 8C ultra-fast charging capability.
BYD executive vice-president Stella Li described the technology as transformative:
"Flash Charging is the breakthrough for EVs that everyone has been waiting for – recharging as fast as refuelling, removing range anxiety."
The vehicle's 115kWh battery can charge from 10 to 70 per cent in five minutes under optimal conditions. Even in extreme cold temperatures as low as -30°C, BYD claims a charge from 20 to 97 per cent takes only 12 minutes, addressing one of electric vehicle owners' primary concerns about winter performance.
However, these charging speeds depend on access to BYD's proprietary Flash Charging infrastructure rather than standard public rapid chargers. The company has announced plans to install 3,000 Flash Charging stations across Europe by the end of 2027, with the first UK installations scheduled for this year. This network would address a significant gap in European charging infrastructure, where ultra-fast chargers above 150 kW currently represent only 11.8 per cent of the continent's 1.3 million public charging points.
Two powertrain options
The ATTO 8 will be offered in two variants, both using the same battery pack. The rear-wheel-drive Design model features a single 456bhp motor, achieving a maximum claimed range of 405 miles and a 0-62mph time of eight seconds. The all-wheel-drive Excellence adds a second motor, increasing total power output to 764bhp and reducing the 0-62mph sprint to 4.6 seconds, though the maximum claimed range falls to 374 miles.
At 5,040mm long, 1,996mm wide and 1,760mm tall, the ATTO 8 is a substantial vehicle that sits at the top of BYD's European line-up, above the ATTO 2, ATTO 3, SEALION 5 and SEAL U. Design features include slim daytime running lights, matrix LED headlights and distinctive rear lights flanking an illuminated BYD badge. A panoramic glass roof comes as standard.
Premium interior appointments
The cabin accommodates seven passengers across three rows, all trimmed in leather. Heating, ventilation and massage functions are provided not only for the front seats but also for the outer seats in the second row. The vehicle features three-zone climate control, with passengers in the third row receiving adjustable headrests and their own air-conditioning controls.
A 15.6-inch central touchscreen with Google Built-in handles infotainment functions, complemented by a 10.25-inch digital driver's display and a 26-inch head-up display. Additional features include a refrigerator that can cool drinks to -6°C or warm contents to 50°C, wireless phone charging and a choice of 10- or 21-speaker sound systems.
Despite the seven-seat configuration, the boot retains 270 litres of luggage capacity with all seats occupied. Folding down the second and third rows expands this to 1,960 litres, while a 136-litre frunk under the bonnet provides additional storage for smaller items.
European expansion strategy
The ATTO 8 launch comes as BYD significantly strengthens its European presence. The company achieved a 2.4 per cent market share across the EU, EFTA and UK in the first half of 2026, matching Tesla for the first time with 174,144 vehicles registered compared to Tesla's 170,351. This growth occurs against a backdrop of rapidly expanding electric vehicle adoption, with battery-electric vehicles capturing 20.7 per cent of the EU market in the first half of 2026, up from 17.5 per cent a year earlier.
BYD is backing its product launches with substantial infrastructure investment. The company plans to operate 2,000 retail sales points across 29 European country markets by the end of 2026, doubling from approximately 1,000 points in late 2025. Additionally, BYD is constructing its first European manufacturing plant in Szeged, Hungary, with an annual capacity of 300,000 vehicles. Series production of the Dolphin Surf is expected to begin at the facility in the fourth quarter of 2026.
BYD has confirmed the ATTO 8 will reach European dealers in the first quarter of 2027. Pricing has not yet been announced.
Dolphin Surf updates
Also revealed at the Paris Motor Show was an updated version of BYD's entry-level Dolphin Surf. The compact electric hatchback gains a five-seat version alongside the existing four-seater configuration. Updates include a larger 12.8-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in for the Comfort model, a new steering-column gear selector and additional equipment including a heated steering wheel on Boost and Comfort versions. The Boost model also receives heated front seats. Both four- and five-seat Dolphin Surfs will be offered simultaneously.
