Chinese automotive giant BYD has made a bold entry into the European market with its new Super Hybrid ATTO 2 DM-i, with company executive Stella Li confidently declaring the vehicle will "beat everyone" in the competitive compact SUV segment.
European Strategic Expansion
During the European market debut in Barcelona on November 19, 2025, BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li emphasized the region's importance to the company's global strategy. "Europe is a particularly important strategic market for us," Li told LaPresse, highlighting the company's successful track record with different models and technologies introduced in recent years.
Li specifically pointed to the company's achievements in Italy, where the Dolphin Surf model launched successfully in Milan, establishing BYD's presence in key European markets ahead of the ATTO 2 DM-i introduction.
Game-Changing Performance Specifications
The ATTO 2 DM-i represents a significant advancement in hybrid technology, positioning itself as what Li describes as "another game-changing product." The compact B-segment SUV boasts impressive capabilities that set it apart from competitors.
The vehicle can travel 90 kilometers in fully electric mode and achieves up to 1,000 kilometers of combined driving range, addressing range anxiety concerns that often deter potential electric vehicle buyers. This extended range is made possible by BYD's proprietary DM-i technology, which the company says ensures "lower consumption levels" compared to traditional hybrids.
Competitive Advantages Over Traditional Vehicles
Li didn't mince words when discussing the ATTO 2 DM-i's competitive positioning. "We will beat anyone," she stated, "all ICE (internal combustion engine) cars, all hybrids, and even mild hybrids: the best performance when it comes to fuel-saving efficiency."
The executive expressed particular pride in the innovations accompanying the ATTO 2 launch, promising European consumers "the best driving experience in terms of technology and performance." She emphasized that the vehicle is designed as a "one-to-one replacement for ICE cars," regardless of whether consumers initially intend to purchase electric or traditional combustion engine vehicles.
Advanced AI Assistant Features
Beyond its hybrid powertrain, the ATTO 2 DM-i introduces sophisticated artificial intelligence capabilities that enhance the driving experience. Li described the AI assistant as being "like talking to a friend," with natural language processing that allows drivers to ask questions about weather, restaurant locations, and other queries with conversational ease.
"You'll be able to ask, 'Hi BYD, what's the weather like today?' or 'Where can I find a restaurant?' and the car will automatically answer as if it were a friend," Li explained, highlighting the user-friendly interface that distinguishes the vehicle from competitors.
BYD's Future Ambitions in Europe
Looking ahead, Li outlined ambitious goals for BYD's brand recognition in the European market. "Everyone will need to recognize BYD as a technology company," she asserted, emphasizing the company's transformation beyond traditional automotive manufacturing.
The executive revealed that BYD aims to become "among the top three brands considered" when European consumers are ready to purchase new vehicles. This ambitious target reflects the company's confidence in its product lineup and technological capabilities as it expands its global footprint.
Li reiterated her conviction that the ATTO 2 DM-i will replicate the success of BYD's previous European launches, signaling the company's commitment to becoming a major player in the region's evolving automotive landscape.
