Chinese electric compact crossover SUV BYD Atto 3 ended up at the epicenter of a missile strike in Jerusalem, Israel, on March 1. The vehicle’s cabin remained structurally sound, and the high-voltage battery did not catch fire, despite being close to the explosion and the resulting crater, CarNewsChina reported.
According to Israeli emergency services, five people were in the car. The driver sustained moderate injuries, while the passengers escaped with minor injuries and shock.
Body intact, battery remains safe
The hit was not direct; as military experts note, any civilian vehicle would likely not survive a direct strike. Still, the SUV was subjected to a powerful shockwave, shrapnel and thermal radiation.
The structural pillars did not crumple and the reinforced cabin structure held up against the blast. Quick evacuation was possible thanks to the door handles and locks remaining operational.
The outlet emphasized the stability of the LFP Blade Battery within the e-Platform 3.0 architecture. Although the SUV was partially displaced toward the edge of the deep crater, there were no signs of fire or thermal runaway.
BYD’s statement and brand image
General Manager of BYD’s Dynasty Sales Division, Lu Tian, briefly responded to the situation: «Safety is the ultimate luxury,» as cited by CarNewsChina.
Notably, the BYD Atto 3 holds 5-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP ratings, with a 91% score for adult occupant protection.
BYD’s plans in Kazakhstan
Interest in the brand continues to grow in the country. In early 2026, the Atto 8 and BYD Seal 6 were announced to officially launch in Kazakhstan’s market by summer.
