BYD is keeping its Australian prices aggressive even though its own government has told Chinese car makers to stop chasing sales with cut-price exports. Beijing issued guidance in September warning brands not to disrupt orderly competition abroad, but the discounts here are staying put.
The numbers behind the fight
The Atto 2 plug-in hybrid still starts from $24,990 before on-road costs, which makes it the cheapest plug-in hybrid on sale in Australia, and the Atto 1 electric hatch holds at $19,990 drive-away, level with the MG 3 as the cheapest new car you can buy. BYD Australia has framed the price moves as delivering value and access to new technology rather than a price war.
Cartell Assessment
Call it what you like, the effect is the same for buyers. A brand new BYD Atto 2 with a plug and a warranty for under $25,000 before on-roads puts real pressure on every mainstream small car and small SUV.
AU Outlook
If Beijing leans harder, some of these prices could firm up. For now the cheap end of the market belongs to BYD and MG, and rivals have to answer.
