The BYD Dolphin Surf is due to arrive in September.
Image: Supplied
With its cheeky, Lamborghini-inspired looks, BYD’s compact electric hatchback will likely turn heads when it hits the South African market in September.
A week after announcing its imminent arrival, BYD South Africa has confirmed that its new battery car will likely be called the Dolphin Surf, and not the Atto 1, as had been suggested previously. This matches its naming convention in Europe and South America, while in China, it continues to wear a Seagull badge.
Yet regardless of what they're going to call it, BYD’s smallest car will almost certainly become the nation’s most affordable electric vehicle (EV). This was confirmed by a recent social media advert run by a BYD dealership in KwaZulu-Natal, which promised a starting price of less than R400,000. However, there have been rumours that it could start closer to the R350,000 mark.
Mzansi’s least expensive EV at present is the Dayun S5, priced at R399,900, but it’s smaller than the BYD and considered suitable primarily for city use.
BYD says its new EV will be priced for young professionals.
Image: Supplied
In terms of size, the 3,780mm-long BYD Dolphin Surf is sized roughly halfway between a Suzuki Celerio and Swift.
As for battery and range figures, the local specifics have yet to be revealed. However, in overseas markets the Dolphin Surf is offered with a choice between two batteries. The smaller 30kWh unit offers a WLTP range of 220km in mixed conditions and 356km in city driving, while the larger 43.2kWh unit can manage 322km combined and 507km in the city, according to claims.
Both feature the BYD Blade Battery, essentially a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery with a blade-like design that’s said to enhance safety, durability, and performance.
It also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology that allows the vehicle to operate as a power bank that can power external devices.
The cabin is fitted with BYD’s signature 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and there’s also a voice command system that responds to “Hi BYD”.
The interior features a rotating touchscreen.
Image: Supplied
What’s more, owners can also download the BYD App onto their phones, allowing them to remotely unlock the car or turn the air conditioning on ahead of a trip, while also checking vital stats such as battery charge levels.
The Chinese carmaker expects it to democratise the EV experience, making it accessible to young professionals, entrepreneurs and even homemakers seeking a low-maintenance and eco-conscious car for the school run.
“South Africa has been crying out for an electric vehicle that delivers on both value and experience,” BYD said.
“Until now, most EVs have been either too premium, too big or too niche for the average consumer. The BYD Dolphin Surf changes that. It’s small but spacious, connected but affordable, bold but practical.”