Chinese cars have long been associated with low quality and poor safety standards. But that perception is changing rapidly as several Chinese brands are entering the European market with impressive crash test results.
One of the most notable examples is BYD, China's largest electric vehicle (EV) maker and a global leader in battery technology. BYD recently received a coveted five-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) for its BYD Atto 3 EV crossover SUV. This is the first time a Chinese car has achieved such a high score in the rigorous testing regime that evaluates the safety performance of new vehicles in Europe. We will explore how Chinese cars are making a splash in Europe with their top safety ratings and the factors behind their success.
BYD Atto 3: The First Chinese Car to Get a Five-Star Rating from Euro NCAP
The Atto 3, which is called the Yuan Plus in China, scored 93% for adult occupant protection, 89% for child occupant protection, 71% for vulnerable road user protection, and 82% for safety assist systems. The electric car also impressed the testers with its advanced driver assistance features, such as autonomous emergency braking, lane support, speed assistance, and occupant status monitoring.
The car's high score reflects BYD's commitment to safety and innovation. According to Isbrand Ho, Managing Director of BYD Europe, "BYD has always prioritized safety in our vehicles. We are very proud to be the first Chinese carmaker to receive a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. This is a testament to our cutting-edge technology and design."
The BYD Atto 3 is not only safe but also eco-friendly and affordable. The car has a range of 400 km on a single charge and can be fully charged in 50 minutes. The car's starting price in Europe is €29,900 ($34,800), which is competitive with other EVs in the same segment.
The Atto 3 is part of BYD's strategy to expand its European presence. The company has already launched its electric buses and trucks in several European countries and plans to introduce more EV models in the future. BYD aims to become a leading player in the European EV market and challenge the dominance of traditional carmakers.