Electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping how we think about travel and camping. While traditionally reserved for rugged SUVs and camper vans, camping enthusiasts are now turning to EVs like the BYD Atto 3 for their eco-friendly benefits and modern comforts. Episode two of the "Electro Revolution" channel's camping series dives into how well the BYD Atto 3 performs as a makeshift camper on an overnight trip. Here’s everything you need to know about its sleep setup, battery usage, climate control, and overall experience.

Preparing the BYD Atto 3 for Sleep

Unlike some EVs that offer dedicated camping modes, such as Tesla's Camp Mode, the BYD Atto 3 relies on customizable in-car settings to provide a comfortable sleep environment. Michael, the reviewer, outlines each step of his setup process, starting with adjusting the vehicle's ambient lighting and display controls to ensure total darkness during the night. The ambient lighting settings, "dynamic colors" and "rhythm," were disabled, and the brightness of the instrument cluster and central display was reduced to zero. However, for complete darkness, Michael suggests covering the display with a tea towel.

The climate control setup required some thought as well. Michael set the temperature to 24°C with external air circulation, directing airflow towards the windscreen and the center cabin vents. This configuration not only maintained a fresh and consistent airflow but also utilized the in-car air filters to ensure clean air throughout the night. Fan speed was kept low to maintain silence, and according to Michael, the setup worked well, providing a comfortable overnight climate without excessive noise.

Battery Usage and Charging

One of the key concerns with camping in an EV is battery usage, especially when the climate control remains active overnight. Michael started the night with a 50% state of charge and connected the BYD Atto 3 to a powered campsite outlet, which provided a steady trickle charge. By morning, the battery percentage had increased to 76%—more than enough for a return journey.

Throughout the night, the vehicle consumed minimal energy while maintaining consistent temperature levels. The charging rate was reported at 800 watts, with an estimate of 33 hours for a full charge. Although the charging speed was relatively slow, Michael noted that the setup was adequate for an overnight camping scenario.

Comparing Comfort: BYD Atto 3 vs. BYD Seal

Michael compared the camping experience in the BYD Atto 3 to his previous test in the BYD Seal. The Atto 3, being an electric crossover, offered significantly more interior space than the sedan-like Seal. This extra space allowed for two people to sleep comfortably in the vehicle when the front seats were pushed forward. While he mentioned a slight dip in the middle section of the cabin where his legs rested, the higher roofline and spacious cabin ultimately made the Atto 3 a better camping option.

In contrast, the BYD Seal offered less headroom and could comfortably accommodate only one person. Noise levels were another point of difference. The climate control system in the Seal was notably louder than in the Atto 3, which could impact the experience for fellow campers near the vehicle. On this front, the Atto 3 proved to be the quieter and more refined option.

Michael rated the Atto 3's camping experience at a solid 7 to 8 out of 10, compared to the 5 to 6 he had assigned to the Seal. Improvements such as a firmer sleep surface (using aftermarket air mattresses) could elevate the experience further.

The Role of Showroom Mode

One feature Michael tested toward the end of his trip was the Atto 3’s showroom mode, which is designed to keep the vehicle operational but stationary for display purposes. While the mode did not disable the ambient lighting, it provided an additional setting to explore for specific use cases. However, the ambient lighting’s persistence during sleep made showroom mode less practical for overnight scenarios. To exit showroom mode, the vehicle needed to be restarted.

Real-World Insights and Suggestions

Camping with the BYD Atto 3 highlights both the strengths and limitations of using an EV for outdoor adventures. Thanks to its spacious cabin, customizable climate control, and efficient battery usage, the Atto 3 is a viable option for short camping trips. The lack of a dedicated "camp mode," however, means users must adjust settings manually, which may not be as seamless as Tesla's more integrated solution.

The video also revealed practical insights for potential campers. Gym mats were used to level the sleeping surface, though Michael suggested investing in inflatable air mattresses for additional comfort. Additionally, he appreciated the vehicle’s quiet operation, which minimized disruption to other campsite guests—a key benefit for eco-conscious adventurers.

Final Thoughts

The BYD Atto 3 demonstrates that EVs are capable companions for camping, provided users are willing to set up the vehicle manually. While more refined options such as Tesla's Camp Mode exist, the Atto 3 offers ample space, a quiet cabin, and reliable battery performance, making it an attractive choice for those looking to blend sustainability with adventure. With minor improvements, such as better sleep accessories, the Atto 3 could become an even more compelling option for EV-based camping enthusiasts.