BYD Atto 3 ADAS Scores “Not Recommended” Rating By Euro NCAP

Despite earning a 5-star crash safety rating prior, The BYD Atto 3 recently made headlines again when the Euro NCAP body gave it a “Not Recommended” rating.

In its latest batch of safety tests, Euro NCAP scored the Atto 3 with a new low for its driver-assistance functions. Here, the vehicle's "Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control" system failed to meet safety standards. Euro NCAP advises drivers to use this feature "at their own risk”, as a result of which.

According to Euro NCAP, the system's failure to assume control in a crucial situation — more precisely, an unresponsive driver running into a roadblock — was the main problem. In this case, the system keeps speed control while cutting off steering assistance after extended inactivity, putting the driver in danger.

In the "Unresponsive Driver Intervention" test, the Atto 3 received a score of 0 out of 25 points. It only succeeded in obtaining "Weak" and "Adequate" outcomes in the categories of Collision Avoidance and System Failure, respectively.

Compounding this issue further is the fact that the Atto 3's system struggled with interpreting road signs, earning a modest 55% in the Vehicle Assistance category. Euro NCAP emphasised that no car had received a "Not Recommended" score since it began testing assisted-driving tech in 2020.

According to Autoexpress UK, BYD has however indicated that its newer models, such as the Dolphin and Seal, feature more advanced driver-assistance systems compared to the Atto 3.

The Atto 3 was one of five vehicles recently tested by Euro NCAP, with the electric BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class receiving "Very Good" ratings, while the Volkswagen ID.7 and Volvo EC40 achieved "Good" gradings.

In 2026, Euro NCAP is scheduled to launch a new rating system that offers more thorough evaluation of driver-assistance technology, as these systems become increasingly integrated into contemporary automobiles.

This updated rating system places greater scrutiny on these tech, ensuring more stringent safety standards. For now though, the BYD Atto 3's driver-assistance system serves as a cautionary tale for drivers relying on automated features.