BYD has launched a new base version of the Atto 2 plug-in crossover in Israel at a price of 138,000 Israeli shekels, making it the cheapest plug-in model currently on sale in the country. The new Active trim undercuts the previous version by 12,000 shekels and is positioned close to budget hybrid rivals.

To achieve the lower price, the Active version features a smaller 7.8 kilowatt-hour battery instead of 18 kilowatt-hours and reduced power output of 166 horsepower rather than 213. Electric driving range drops from 90 kilometers to 40 kilometers, and acceleration from zero to 100 kilometers per hour slows to 9.1 seconds. Charging is slower and fast charging is still not available.

Equipment has also been scaled back, with smaller wheels, fabric seats, manual seat adjustment, and the removal of features such as a 360-degree camera and wireless phone charging. However, interior space and trunk capacity remain unchanged, and safety systems are the same as in higher trims.

The main appeal of the Atto 2 Active is economic. Its lower purchase price and favorable company car tax rate compared to standard hybrids are expected to make it attractive בעיקר to fleet buyers and drivers who charge infrequently but want plug-in benefits.