6391 Elgin St. Celina, Delaware 10299

(480) 555-0103

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15 May 2020 8:30 am

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BYD DOLPHIN

Range

up to

test

190 – 350

km

0-100 km/hr

as fast as

test

7 – 12.1

s

Price

MSRP

$

18k – 37k

test

Description:

The BYD Dolphin is a Chinese EV and compact electric hatchback developed by Chinese automaker BYD, positioned as one of the brand’s most affordable global EVs. Known as the Dolphin Surf in some markets, the BYD Dolphin emphasizes efficiency, practicality, and accessible electric mobility rather than performance or luxury.

Range and Battery of the BYD DOLPHIN :

  • Two Blade Battery options: 30 kWh (base) and 60.5 kWh (extended).

  • Real-world range between 190–350 km, depending on trim and conditions (WLTP rated up to 350 km).

  • Energy efficiency averages around 14–15 kWh/100 km, aided by the lightweight structure.

  • AC charging up to 7.4 kW; DC fast charging up to 65–85 kW, providing 10–80% in roughly 29–36 min.

  • Battery uses lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) Blade design, improving safety and cycle durability.

Powertrain and Performance of the BYD DOLPHIN :

  • Offered with two power outputs: 65 kW (88 hp) and 150 kW (201 hp), both using front-wheel drive.

  • Acceleration from 0–100 km/h varies between 12.1 s (base) and 7 s (range-topping trim).

  • Delivers adequate urban performance, with responsive torque delivery but modest highway power.

  • Suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over handling; steering is light but not highly communicative.

  • Braking performance is functional though slightly inconsistent, lacking adjustable regenerative braking levels.

Technology and Features of the BYD DOLPHIN :

  • Central rotating 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

  • Standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and reversing camera; higher trims add 360° view.

  • Equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, allowing external appliance power up to household levels.

  • Cabin features synthetic “vegan leather” seats, available ventilation and heating, and digital driver display.

  • Lacks one-pedal driving but includes various drive modes, automatic climate control (manual on base trims), and a 6-year warranty.

Specifications:

Trim Levels: DOLPHIN
Price (EUR) 18,000 – 37,000
Range (km) 190 – 350
Battery (kWh) 30 – 60.5
Power (kW) 65 – 150
0-100km/hr (sec) 7 – 12.1
Top speed (km/hr) 150 – 160
Torque (Nm) 175 – 310
Charge time (Level 3) 29m – 36m
Charge time (Level 2) 3h 15m – 6h 30m

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Review Videos

This is the problem with CHEAP cars

BYD Dolphin Review: Is This SA's Best Value EV?

NEW BYD Dolphin Surf review – the BEST small EV?

BYD Dolphin Surf Review: Should you buy one?

2025 BYD Dolphin review: The only EV you need?

2025 BYD Dolphin Surf Review | BYD’s Smallest Electric Car

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Frequently Asked Questions

The BYD DOLPHIN is a compact, fully electric hatchback produced by Chinese automaker BYD. It is part of BYD’s “Ocean Series” lineup and is designed for urban commuting and short-distance travel. The vehicle combines affordability, practicality, and efficiency, using BYD’s in-house Blade Battery technology for improved safety and longevity.
The BYD DOLPHIN is available with electric motors ranging from 65 kW to 150 kW, depending on the trim. These motors deliver 175–310 Nm of torque and enable 0–100 km/h acceleration between 7 and 12.1 seconds. All versions are front-wheel-drive, offering a balanced performance suitable for both city and highway use.
Battery capacity options range from 30 kWh to 60.5 kWh. Depending on the configuration, the BYD DOLPHIN achieves a range of 190 km to 350 km (WLTP) on a full charge. The larger 60.5 kWh battery offers the best long-distance usability for daily commuting or moderate travel.
Using a Level 2 AC charger, the BYD DOLPHIN takes about 3 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes for a full charge. With Level 3 DC fast charging, it can charge from 10–80% in approximately 29–36 minutes, depending on the battery size and trim.
The BYD DOLPHIN’s price ranges from €18,000 to €37,000, depending on the battery size, performance version, and equipment level. This makes it one of the more affordable fully electric vehicles in its class, often compared to the MG4 and Renault 5 EV.
Inside the BYD DOLPHIN, reviewers highlight comfortable seats, a rotating 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability. The interior design is functional, with adequate headroom and legroom for a compact hatchback. Higher trims also feature adaptive cruise control and 360-degree cameras.
The BYD DOLPHIN offers a 308-litre boot, foldable rear seats, and multiple storage compartments. Although it seats four comfortably, the flat floor design increases interior space. Its compact dimensions and light steering make it highly suitable for urban driving and parking.
In expert tests, the BYD DOLPHIN delivers smooth acceleration and quiet operation. Performance improves noticeably in Sport mode, providing quicker throttle response. While it’s not the most engaging car to drive, the comfort and efficiency make it appealing for everyday commuting.
Reviewers praise the BYD DOLPHIN for its value for money, efficient LFP battery, low running costs, and strong safety equipment. Its 6-year warranty, vehicle-to-load functionality, and adaptive cruise control as standard make it a practical entry point into electric mobility.
Some reviewers note limited DC charging speed, average build quality, and basic climate control on lower trims. The rear seats are best for two adults, and no front trunk (frunk) is available. These trade-offs reflect the DOLPHIN’s focus on affordability rather than premium features.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

The BYD DOLPHIN often undercuts rivals in price, offering a competitive entry-point for EV adopters.
Reviewers note that road noise is well suppressed, and suspension tuning favours a smooth, composed ride.
The use of a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) Blade-style battery gives better thermal safety, cycle life, and stability.
Owners and reviewers highlight the V2L feature (powering external appliances) as a useful real-world bonus.
Even mid or lower trims include features like adaptive cruise control, rotating touchscreen, camera systems, and driver aids.
Despite its compact footprint, many reviews praise the relatively roomy interior, flat rear floor, and decent rear legroom (for two).
The DOLPHIN supports DC charging (often ~ 60–85 kW) and delivers enough range for daily use and moderate trips in realistic conditions.

Cons:

Some reviewers and forum users consider the DC charging rate underwhelming, particularly for long-distance travel.
Scratchy plastics, panel fit gaps, occasional glue separation, and paint/chipping issues are often flagged in reviews.
Some versions limit rear seating to two adults (centre is less usable), reducing flexibility.
In certain trims the air-conditioning is basic (not automatic climate control), limiting comfort.
A notable steering control unit recall affecting some Dolphin units (manufactured Nov 2022–Dec 2023) raises caution about component quality.

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