How to try an EV with complimentary charging

The new Atto 3 medium electric SUV is expected to become the first BYD model available for hire through SIXT from mid-2023, offering RACV Members an affordable chance to try an EV on a road trip or across the daily grind like shopping trips and school drop offs. RACV Members save 15% off car rentals with SIXT at participating locations in Australia. 

SIXT Australia CEO, Matthew Beattie said the announcement is another example of the company's commitment to providing Australians with more electric vehicle options. 
 
“Whether heading on a family road trip, a weekend away or a business trip, the BYDs we will have in our fleet will make choosing an EV even more attractive for customers and corporates looking to save on fuel costs and minimise their footprint,” Mr Beattie said. 
 
“The BYD Atto 3 is an exclusive offering with SIXT for anyone looking to rent one in Australia. They offer an uncompromising EV experience with a 400km manufacturer advertised charge range.”

The BYD Atto 3 is available to rent via SIXT. Image: Supplied

Customers who hire an EV from SIXT can take advantage of complimentary charging with the national Chargefox network throughout their hire period, using Chargefox’s app to plan travel routes using the fastest chargers available, both in Victoria and interstate. RACV Members that already own an EV can save 10% when charging at any Chargefox ultra-rapid site across Australia.

BYD's Atto 3 is among a new range of electric cars on sale locally that are piquing the interest of car shoppers thanks to unique features and technology. BYD has grown quickly to become the second highest-selling brand of electric vehicles in Australia behind Tesla, with the brand set to launch more affordable EV models this year - including the Dolphin small hatch and Seal medium sedan. 

Standard BYD Atto 3 exterior equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Atto 3 range kicks off at $48,011 for the Standard variant to $51,011.35, plus on-road costs. Both variants of the BYD Atto 3 qualify for the Victorian Government EV rebate.

The BYD Atto 3 comes with a host of standard features. Image: Supplied

Electric vehicle sales rise in Australia

Thanks to government rebates and incentives, higher fuel prices and the arrival of new EV brands and models, 2022 was a record year for battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales in Australia. EVs captured a record 3.1 per cent of new car sales for the year, with 33,410 vehicles sold.   
 
EV sales in Australia in 2022 were dominated by Tesla. The Californian brand sold 19,594 vehicles locally last year, outselling legacy manufacturers including Audi, Honda and Volvo despite offering just two models for sale: the Model 3 medium sedan and Model Y medium SUV. The Model 3 even displaced the cheaper Toyota Camry as Australia’s favourite medium sedan last year.

Sales momentum for EVs in Australia has continued into 2023, with the Model 3 shocking the local automotive industry to join perennial ute favourites Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger on the sales podium in January. Tesla delivered surprise price cuts of up to $3100 on Model 3 variants in the first week of January, contributing to the surge in demand, despite the clear buyer preference for SUVs over sedans.