Leapmotor B10 VS BYD Atto 3, a showdown between two automakers adept at price wars

[PCauto]  When it comes to price disruptors in the electric vehicle market, BYD and Leapmotor are undoubtedly key players. Their strategies are completely different, but both bring tangible benefits to consumers. BYD lowers prices through scale and technology, while Leapmotor excels at loading up on features. When they compete in the same segment, it makes for an interesting showdown.

The commonality between them is that they are both very affordable. However, their product philosophies are quite different: the Atto 3 pursues a stable and well-rounded philosophy, whereas the B10 adopts a more driver-focused and specification-oriented approach. One prioritizes a balanced and refined experience, while the other competes with standout specifications.

Both the BYD Atto 3 and Leapmotor B10 are not only selling well in China but are also making a mark in the global market.

The Atto 3, with its Blade Battery and mature platform, has become a popular choice in many countries. The B10, on the other hand, leverages its rear-wheel-drive layout, spacious interior, and large battery to fuel its own rapid overseas expansion.

Exterior Comparison of BYD Atto 3 and Leapmotor B10

In terms of design style, the two vehicles take completely different approaches.

The Atto 3 adopts an urban chic design, characterized by smooth, flowing lines, short overhangs, and a classic crossover silhouette. Its compact footprint makes it highly maneuverable and easy to park in the city, contributing to a light, stress-free driving experience that reduces driver fatigue in congested traffic.

The B10 is a standard traditional SUV design, featuring more square and robust lines, giving it a visually more stable appearance. The larger body size is clearly intended for practical use, making it especially suitable for group travel or situations that often require transporting large items.

As the dimension data shows, the B10 holds a marginal advantage in overall length, width, height, and wheelbase.

Which car has a richer configuration, BYD Atto 3 or Leapmotor B10?

Stepping inside immediately reveals the B10's key advantage: space. Its generous dimensions translate into ample legroom and headroom for all occupants, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The breathable fabric seats (with premium options in higher trims) further enhance comfort by preventing stuffiness in hot weather.

The space layout of the Atto 3 is more compact but very well-designed. The front electric seats offer good support, making long drives less tiring. Although the rear space is not as spacious as the B10, it suits the body characteristics of Asians and feels quite comfortable. One highlight is the panoramic sunroof, which provides excellent lighting and makes the interior feel more open.

The central control screen of the Atto 3 can rotate, and combined with the floating dashboard, it exudes a stronger sense of technology. The B10's combination of a 14.6-inch central control screen and 8.8-inch dashboard may not be as flashy, but it's very user-friendly.

While both cars support smartphone connectivity and voice control, the Atto 3's infotainment system offers a more polished and responsive user experience.

Comparison of Intelligent Driving Features: BYD Atto 3 and Leapmotor B10

When it comes to intelligent driving, both cars reach Level 2, but the actual experience has some differences.

The B10's assistance system includes adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot monitoring (BSM), and driver fatigue alert, covering the needs of daily city commutes and short highway trips.

The STYLE and DESIGN versions further enhance features like automatic parking assist and reversing camera, making operations in tight spaces or complex road conditions easier.

Its system logic prioritizes straightforward operation and practicality, offering almost no learning curve for daily use, even if its interactive interface is less elaborate than the Atto 3's.

Equipped with a more advanced sensor suite, the Atto 3's Level 2 intelligent driving system offers superior perception. It bundles a robust set of standard features like full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, auto hold, and hill-start assist. This hardware and software integration provides comprehensive driver support in city traffic, on suburban roads, and during highway cruising.

The long-range version excels in system feedback and auxiliary logic optimization, such as smoother acceleration and deceleration when following at low speeds and better lane-centering precision,  giving it a noticeable edge over the B10 in these areas.

In addition, the door opening warning function and tire pressure monitoring make the Atto 3 more adaptable to diverse daily usage scenarios in terms of active safety and driving convenience, providing a safer and more reassuring driving experience, especially for novice drivers or family users.

How do the power and range performances of BYD Atto 3 and Leapmotor B10 compare?

Power performance of B10 and Atto 3

While both the B10 and Atto 3 utilize single-motor pure electric powertrains, they differ fundamentally in their drive layout and output characteristics.

The B10 rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor has a maximum power of 160kW (218Ps), a peak torque of 240N·m, and an acceleration of 0-100km/h uniformly set at 8 seconds. Its power response is smooth, and handling is agile, with the rear-wheel-drive layout providing a more direct driving experience, particularly in congested urban traffic.

In contrast, the Atto 3 employs a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 150kW (204Ps) and a notably higher peak torque of 310 N·m. This torque advantage contributes to its quicker acceleration, with the standard version reaching 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and the long-range version in just 7.3 seconds.

Although its power output is slightly lower than the B10's, the Atto 3's higher torque figure translates to more explosive off-the-line acceleration. This characteristic makes for easier handling in daily driving and high-speed overtakes. From a driving experience perspective, it is especially suitable for users who need to frequently start or navigate between urban and highway scenarios.

Comparison of Range Between B10 and Atto 3

In terms of range, the differences between the two vehicles are more evident. B10 offers two battery options: 56.2kWh (LIFE) and 67.1kWh (STYLE/DESIGN), with a CLTC range of 361km and 434km, respectively. The energy consumption is 17.3kWh per 100km, showcasing good overall energy efficiency control.

Atto 3 is equipped with BYD's self-developed Blade Battery, available in capacities of 49.92kWh (standard version) and 60.48kWh (long-range version), providing NEDC ranges of 410km and 480km, respectively. The WLTP ranges are 345km and 420km.

Thanks to the Blade Battery's excellent thermal management and safety, the long-range version delivers stable, predictable range even in hot conditions. This translates into a key real-world benefit: superior suitability for long journeys and extended driving.

In terms of charging convenience, B10 supports high-voltage fast charging, requiring only about 18 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%, which is suitable for emergency energy replenishment. However, its slow charging time is not specified and may rely on home or public slow charging stations.

Atto 3 also supports AC slow charging and DC fast charging. Home slow charging can fully charge the vehicle in 6-8 hours, while fast charging from 30% to 80% takes only 30-40 minutes, making it more suitable for flexible charging planning during long trips.

In summary, the B10 holds a clear advantage in fast-charging speed, ideal for quick top-ups. The Atto 3, conversely, is the superior choice for long-distance travel, offering greater peace of mind through its stable range performance and flexible charging options.

Which is better in handling: BYD Atto 3 or Leapmotor B10

Let's talk about the chassis first. Leapmotor B10 and BYD Atto 3 both use a front MacPherson and rear multi-link setup, which is a relatively common combination. However, their tuning styles are quite different.

Tuned for comfort, the B10's chassis handles uneven surfaces in a composed manner, ensuring a smooth ride even for those in the back. This comfort is paired with the agility of its rear-wheel-drive system, which gives it a nimble character in urban settings—the steering is direct, and the car feels eager to turn.

For the Atto 3, driving it feels more stable. The front-wheel-drive setup ensures stability on highways, and the braking and turning are very linear, which makes it less stressful for new drivers. To put it simply, it's the kind of tuning that feels safer.

The B10 employs a staggered tire setup (225mm front / 235mm rear) paired with ventilated discs, contributing to its strong grip. The Atto 3, while fitted with slightly narrower tires, benefits from well-sorted chassis tuning that inspires confidence, even in wet conditions.

Both models are equipped with electronic handbrakes. However, the rear-wheel-drive characteristic of the B10 does have an advantage in the city, making sudden lane changes more flexible. The Atto 3, on the other hand, is more suitable for long-distance driving, offering stability on highways.

On the road, the B10 feels nimble and light on its feet, ideal for city driving, with well-controlled body roll in corners. The Atto 3, in contrast, feels more substantial and planted, maintaining composure even when fully loaded or cornering at speed.

Which is more worth buying, the BYD Atto 3 or the Leapmotor B10?

Defined by its agility and user-friendly nature, the B10's rear-wheel-drive makes it exceptionally handy in urban environments. Coupled with a comfort-oriented chassis and a smooth ride for rear passengers, it is perfectly tailored for daily commuting.

Its interior adopts a simple and practical design, encompassing all essential features at a very accessible price point. To be honest, if you're on a budget but still want some driving enjoyment, the B10 is definitely a good choice.

The Atto 3 is a bit different. It focuses more on a solid and stable feel, with its front-wheel-drive design and the low center of gravity provided by the blade battery, making it particularly stable on highways.

It offers longer range, quick acceleration, and a complete suite of intelligent driving assistance features. In a way, it’s more suitable for those who frequently drive long distances or prioritize safety features.

The decision hinges on which type of value you prioritize. The B10 offers outstanding practical value for urban commuters, whereas the Atto 3 delivers its worth through superior technology and confidence on long-distance drives.

On a final note, both of these cars reflect the characteristics of Chinese electric vehicles: affordable prices with good performance.  Ultimately, your final decision should align with which set of strengths best matches your primary driving scenarios and personal priorities.