BYD vehicles in Australia now offer app connectivity that allows owners to remotely check and control their vehicle, technology that has long been available on Teslas.

    The free BYD App is available on both Apple and Android devices, with access to progressively be rolled out to customers from today.

    Owners with access to the BYD App can now remotely check their vehicle and also control a number of features.

    The available functions in the BYD App include the following:

    • Driving mileage indication
    • State of charge
    • Vehicle state
    • Remote door unlock
    • Remote door lock
    • Remote headlight flash
    • Remote climate control
    • Status of doors and windows
    • Tyre pressure indicator

    BYD Automotive notes in the email sent out to owners that when the doors are unlocked using the BYD App, “the vehicle can be started within four minutes”.

    Other brands that offer this kind of remote connectivity include Kia with its Kia Connect, Hyundai with its Bluelink, and Ford with its FordPass.

    The only vehicle BYD currently sells in Australia is the Atto 3 electric SUV, which was the third top-selling electric vehicle (EV) in 2022 despite deliveries only starting in September.

    The BYD Atto 3 is currently priced from $48,011 before on-roads for the Standard Range, and $51,011 before on-roads for the Extended Range.

    The Atto 3 won’t be alone for long as the local distributor EVDirect has confirmed the GWM Ora– and MG 4-rivalling Dolphin hatchback is set to arrive in the first half of 2023, and the Tesla Model 3-rivalling Seal sedan is set to arrive in the second half of this year.

    Both of these models have been spied in Australia recently.

    EVDirect managing director Luke Todd also told CarExpert in late last year it will launch a competitor to the LDV eT60, plus the incoming JAC T9 EV and (potentially) Geely Radar RD6, in 2024.

    Mr Todd said this electric pickup has been “designed around Australian conditions”, with both Chinese and Australian engineers working on the project.

    He added that it’s slightly larger than a Toyota HiLux and can be described as a “sports muscle ute”.

    BYD is currently expanding at a rapid pace, rolling out its electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe, Japan, and Australia – where its Atto 3 is selling in strong numbers after a few launch speed bumps.

    In fact, the Warren Buffet-backed EV and battery supplier eclipsed three million EV and PHEV sales globally in November last year.

    MORE: Everything BYD Atto 3

    Jack Quick

    Jack Quick is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne. Jack studied journalism and photography at Deakin University in Burwood, and previously represented the university in dance nationally. In his spare time, he loves to pump Charli XCX and play a bit of Grand Theft Auto. He’s also the proud owner of a blue, manual 2020 Suzuki Jimny.

    Buy and Lease
    Uncover exclusive deals and discounts with a VIP referral to Australia's best dealers
    Uncover exclusive deals and discounts with a VIP referral to Australia's best dealers