Introduction
China’s BYD Dolphin may just be the answer to the budget electric vehicle (EV) conundrum. While the brand may be unfamiliar to many in Europe, BYD is actually one of the world’s largest battery manufacturers and has been in the industry for quite some time. Unlike its rivals, BYD produces its cars in-house, giving them a significant advantage in terms of quality and control over the manufacturing process. The BYD Dolphin is one of the latest models launched by the company in the UK and Europe.
A Perfect Size
When it comes to size, the BYD Dolphin strikes a balance between its competitors. Sitting between the smaller PJO E28 and the slightly larger Volkswagen ID3, the Dolphin aims to provide the best of both worlds. Coincidentally, it shares a similar size with the Music MG4, making it a viable alternative in the market.
Specifications
Starting at around £26,000, the BYD Dolphin offers a 45 kW car with a 994 brake horsepower electric motor, providing a range of 21 miles. Alternatively, the 60 kW model boasts 2011 brake horsepower. While these specifications may not compete with the top-tier EVs, they offer a respectable range and power output for the price tag.
Built by BYD
One of the major advantages of the BYD Dolphin, as with all BYD vehicles, is that they are built in-house. This means that there is very little reliance on third-party manufacturers, resulting in a superior level of control and innovation. This is especially important in the EV market, where technological advancements are crucial for success.
The Future of BYD
As BYD expands into the European market, the Dolphin represents an enticing choice for budget-conscious EV buyers. With its competitive pricing, adequate specifications, and the backing of a reputable manufacturer, the BYD Dolphin is positioned to make a splash in the market.
Performance and Affordability
The BYD Dolphin is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering impressive performance and affordability. According to WLTP tests, it can cover up to 265 miles on a single charge, providing a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. The best part? It comes with a budget-friendly price tag, starting just over $30,000. Even the top-spec design model, which boasts the long-range capability, is priced at $32,000, equivalent to entry-level EVs like the Perse E28 or Fat 600e. This makes the BYD Dolphin an enticing option for those looking to make the switch to electric without breaking the bank.
Easy Buying Process
When it comes to purchasing a BYD Dolphin, the process is simple and convenient. BYD has partnered with numerous well-established dealers across the UK. Interested buyers can visit the BYD website to locate these dealers and have face-to-face conversations with them. This personal interaction allows potential buyers to inquire about financing options, discuss specific car details, and even schedule test drives. Moreover, individuals can physically examine the cars in showrooms, offering a traditional car-buying experience that provides reassurance and peace of mind.
Impressive Warranties
One of the noteworthy aspects of owning a BYD Dolphin is the comprehensive warranties provided. The high voltage battery, a crucial component of any EV, is covered by an 8-year/125,000-mile warranty. This guarantee ensures that buyers can rely on the longevity and performance of the battery, eliminating concerns about its durability. Additionally, the car itself comes with a 6-year/90,000-mile warranty, further solidifying the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction. These warranties serve as a testament to BYD’s confidence in the quality and reliability of their product.
Design and Aesthetics
In terms of its appearance, the BYD Dolphin has its highs and lows. Upon walking around the car, one feature that stands out as slightly tacky is the design element that could potentially divide opinions. However, apart from that, the overall look of the car is quite appealing. The compact size of the Dolphin adds to its charm, making it suitable for navigating crowded city streets and tight parking spaces. With its sleek lines and modern styling, the BYD Dolphin manages to strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics.
In conclusion, the BYD Dolphin emerges as an attractive option for individuals seeking a budget-friendly EV. With its impressive range, affordable price, easy buying process, and generous warranties, this electric vehicle proves to be a compelling choice in the market. While it may have one minor aesthetic flaw, the BYD Dolphin’s overall design is appealing and well-suited for urban settings. Embracing the future of transportation has never been more accessible or stylish.
Design and Exterior
The BYD Dolphin certainly catches the eye with its two-tone color scheme. While some may find it appealing, others might not be as impressed. However, it does have a smart and inoffensive design, which can be seen as a major advantage considering its competitors like the aura funky cat, which is quite challenging to look at. Unlike the MG4, the Dolphin doesn’t stand out as much, and whether this is a positive or negative aspect is subjective.
Practicality
One aspect where the BYD Dolphin falls short is in terms of boot size. With only 345 liters of space, it is a disappointment compared to the larger capacity of the MG 4S. Additionally, the shape of the boot is quite shallow. However, there is a silver lining – lifting up the boot floor reveals ample underfloor storage, perfect for stashing cables or other essentials. On the bright side, the Dolphin does redeem itself with excellent rear passenger space. The designers have clearly prioritized legroom over the size of the boot. It is possible to comfortably accommodate tall adults in the rear seats, although headroom might be a bit tight for those over 6 feet tall. Despite its compact length of under 4.3 meters, the Dolphin provides a surprisingly comfortable interior.
Features and Trim Levels
Even the cheaper Comfort trim of the BYD Dolphin offers an impressive array of features. The highlight is undoubtedly the huge 12.3-inch color touchscreen, which adds a touch of modernity to the cabin. Furthermore, heated seats, leather upholstery, rear parking sensors, and electrically adjustable seats are also included. This level of equipment is quite impressive for a budget EV, and it adds a touch of luxury and convenience to the overall experience.
In conclusion, while the BYD Dolphin may have some drawbacks in terms of boot size, its design and practicality features make it a worthy contender in the budget EV market. With its smart and inoffensive exterior, ample rear passenger space, and appealing set of features, the Dolphin offers an attractive option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of electric vehicles without breaking the bank.
Design and Features
The BYD Dolphin offers a higher spec design that comes with some impressive features. This includes a reversing camera, panoramic glass roof, and wireless phone charging. But one unique party trick that sets every BYD model, including the Dolphin, apart is the big 12.3-inch touchscreen. What’s even cooler is that this touchscreen rotates, which is not something you see in many cars at this price range. In fact, the only other model that I can think of with a powered screen like this is the Mercedes SL. So, it’s safe to say that it’s pretty cool.
A Gimmick or a Functional Addition?
While the rotating touchscreen may seem like a fun and exciting feature, I personally find it to be more of a gimmick. When it’s in portrait mode, it cuts into the view out a little bit, which is not ideal. I much prefer using it in landscape mode. However, I do appreciate having the option to rotate the screen. It adds a touch of versatility to the overall user experience.
Interior Quality
Moving on to the rest of the interior in the Dolphin, I must say that the material finish in this high-spec version is pretty good. I don’t have any major complaints about it. However, there are some areas where you can spot signs of cheaper finishes and scratchy plastics. The plastics around the boss on the steering wheel, in particular, are not to my liking. But overall, the interior quality is decent, and there are some nice touches like the damping on the vents.
Cost Savings and Compromises
Like any budget electric vehicle, the Dolphin does have some areas where cost savings are evident. While the overall interior quality is satisfactory, there are still some instances where you can see where the manufacturer has cut corners. The scratchy plastics and cheaper finishes are a clear indication of this. However, considering the price range of the Dolphin, these compromises are to be expected.
Demisting Function and Lane Keep Assist
I found that the demisting function in the BYD Dolphin was a bit frustrating. When I first got into the car after it had been sitting for a few days, there was a lot of condensation inside and it took a long time for it to clear. This could be a problem during the winter months when quick demisting is crucial. In comparison to other EVs I have driven, the demisting function of the BYD Dolphin seems slower and less efficient.
Another issue I encountered was with the lane keep assist feature. In this car, the lane keep assist is much more intrusive than in other vehicles I have driven. This is saying something, considering the number of narrow roads with solid white lines on the side that I encounter regularly. The lane keep assist in the BYD Dolphin tends to forcefully tug the car across the road, even when there are oncoming cars. Personally, I find this to be quite bothersome. In order to avoid this, I have to turn off the lane keep assist feature. However, turning it off is not as easy as it should be. It takes three or four prods on the touch screen to successfully disable it. I believe that BYD should make this process easier and more accessible, as it is an important function that many drivers may need to utilize frequently.
Spaciousness and Seat Adjustment
On a more positive note, I must say that the BYD Dolphin provides a decent amount of space. The cabin feels quite roomy and the visibility is satisfactory. Additionally, I appreciate the electric seat adjustment feature. Although there is no lumber adjustment, the seats are still comfortable and well-designed. Overall, I do not find this to be a major issue.
In conclusion, while the BYD Dolphin offers certain advantages such as space and seat comfort, it does have some drawbacks that need to be addressed. The demisting function could be more efficient, especially during colder seasons, and the lane keep assist feature needs to be less intrusive and easier to turn off. However, considering its budget-friendly nature, the BYD Dolphin could still be a viable choice for those in search of an affordable electric vehicle.
Battery and Charging
When it comes to electric vehicles, one of the most crucial aspects is the battery life and charging capabilities. The BYD Dolphin does not disappoint in this department. With its small battery option, it can charge at up to 60 kW, which may be considered slow in today’s standards. However, it still manages to reach an 80% charge in just 30 minutes for its 45 kW battery.
On the other hand, the 60 kW car charges up to 88 kW, despite the larger battery capacity. This level of charging is more competitive and also achieves an 80% charge in the same 30-minute time frame. Both options are equipped with type 2 and CCS sockets, making them compatible with the majority of public chargers. Additionally, if you have a 7 kW home wallbox, you can expect a full battery in just 7 to 10 hours.
Touchscreen Features
The BYD Dolphin comes with all the touchscreen features you would expect from a modern electric vehicle. It includes satnav, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, operating the air conditioning through the touchscreen can be a bit fiddly at times. The icons tend to disappear when you need them the most, and this can make adjusting the air conditioning settings a bit challenging. It takes some getting used to, and the tiny icons at the bottom of the screen can be quite frustrating.
Despite these minor inconveniences, the graphics and screen response times are good. Considering the price of the car, most users will be content with the touchscreen features and learn to navigate through its quirks.
Driving Experience
Now, let’s move on to the most important aspect of any car – the driving experience. But before that, let’s take a moment to appreciate BYD’s expertise in battery manufacturing. As one of the largest battery manufacturers, BYD ensures that the Dolphin is equipped with a reliable and efficient power source.
Although the specific details about the driving experience are not provided, one can expect a satisfactory performance from the BYD Dolphin. With BYD’s focus on innovation and their strong position in the EV market, it is likely that the Dolphin delivers a smooth and enjoyable ride.
The BYD Dolphin: A Breakthrough in Battery Technology
The BYD Dolphin, a new budget electric vehicle (EV) that is generating a lot of attention in the automotive industry, is not only making waves with its affordable price but also with its cutting-edge battery technology. At the forefront of battery innovation, BYD has introduced the BYD Blade Battery, a truly fascinating piece of technology that sets the Dolphin apart from its competitors.
A Unique Battery Design
The BYD Blade Battery differentiates itself from traditional lithium-ion batteries by its distinct shape and structure. Running the length of the car, this Cobalt-free battery utilizes a nickel, manganese, and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry instead of the more commonly used nickel, manganese, and cobalt formula. This combination results in a battery that is not only environmentally friendly but also highly efficient.
No More Cobalt: Good News for the Environment
One of the standout features of the BYD Dolphin is its lack of cobalt, which has long been a concern in the EV industry due to mining practices and its potential environmental impact. The absence of cobalt in the Dolphin’s battery is a significant development for those who prioritize sustainability. With the use of the LFP chemistry, the Dolphin achieves a greener, cleaner energy solution without compromising on performance.
The Quirky Name: Dolphin
While we delve into the technicalities and features of the BYD Dolphin, it’s hard to ignore the peculiar name given to this remarkable electric vehicle. The Dolphin, although quite an unexpected name for a car, is not alone in its uniqueness. Just think about all the other cars out there with unusual names, like the Ford Puma. The automotive industry has a long history of naming vehicles after animals, and the Dolphin is just another addition to this trend. It’s important to embrace the individuality and character that these names bring to the automotive world.
The Comfortable Ride
If you do in fact drive a dolphin, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s actually very comfortable. The top-spec design car comes with 17-inch wheels and hand-cooked tires, a great improvement from the early cars that had Lingl tires. The company received bad feedback regarding the traction of those tires, leading them to switch to hand-cooked tires, which is a decent tire brand. However, even with the upgraded tires, there is still some scrabble, especially during middling accelerations or when there is steering lock. Spinning up is a possibility, especially on chilly and greasy mornings.
The Power and Performance
The top-spec car boasts 2011 brake horsepower and can go from 0 to 62 mph in just 7 seconds, making it reasonably quick. Despite the quick acceleration, the tires still pose a challenge. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that the power and performance of this budget EV are commendable.
The Lane Keep Assist
One interesting feature in the BYD Dolphin is the lane keep assist. Even without white lines around, the lane keep assist kicks in. For some, this may be a pet hate. However, it’s worth mentioning that beyond this feature, the car is really comfortable and offers a slightly wallowy ride. The ride quality adds to the overall appeal and comfort of the vehicle.
With these compelling features, the BYD Dolphin presents itself as a strong contender in the budget EV market. Its comfortable ride and impressive power make it an attractive choice for those looking to embrace electric mobility without breaking the bank. Although the tires may still need some improvement, the overall package offered by the BYD Dolphin is worth considering.
Driving Experience and Handling
You can really feel the body moving about, but I don’t mind that, because actually it’s well enough controlled that it doesn’t feel too kind of, you know, sort of sickness inducing and uh. Do you know what? I actually think the dolphin drives pretty well. The steering, you have got your drive modes down here, it’s a bit of a funny. These little buttons down here on the dash are a little bit hard to use actually and actually, interestingly, things like if you want to set the auto mode on the aircon, it’s right next to the hazard warning button. So it’s quite easy to accidentally put your hazards on anyway. The drive modes, you’ve got your normal sport, Eco and normal um, that sort of weights up the steering in sport, but I mean it doesn’t really improve matters that much because it’s just not a car that you want to drive very quickly. It’s just a car that’s nice to just sit back and relax and enjoy the fact that it’s got that really nice cushy comfort. It does have enough grip, it does spin up its tires, like I said, when you’re coming out of a junction, but in corners when it’s loaded up, actually you do, you can feel how much grip there is and it’s absolutely fine. So it feels like a perfectly confident car to drive. I like it just in normal mode or Eco potter along and it actually does the job pretty well.
Noise and Comfort
It’s not the quietest electric car either. You can get a little bit of electric motor wind from that electric motor on the front wheels, bit of wind noise, but I mean, even so, you know it’s absolutely fine when it comes to comfort and refinement, the dolphin is actually really pretty good.
Driving Experience
The BYD Dolphin test car offers a pleasant driving experience. However, it is important to note that the base version of this car will have a different suspension setup. Instead of the multi-link rear suspension, it will come with a torsion beam. This change could potentially alter the car’s driving dynamics.
Range and Efficiency
When we started our test drive on a chilly day, the range readout on the Dolphin indicated that it could go over 250 miles on a full charge. However, in practice, the car only managed about 2.7 miles per kilowatt-hour, which is quite inefficient even considering the cold weather. Therefore, we estimate a real-world range of around 160 miles per charge. We anticipate that this range will improve to well over 220 miles in warmer summer conditions.
Affordability and Value
The BYD Dolphin presents an intriguing proposition in terms of its affordability and value for money. In comparison to other electric vehicles currently available in the market, it offers a significant amount of roominess and range. However, it falls short in terms of overall driving experience and cohesiveness when compared to other models such as the P E28, Corsa E, and even the MG4.
Interior Quality and Budget Build
While I personally appreciate the comfortable ride and the materials used in the BYD Dolphin’s interior, there are several small details that serve as constant reminders of its budget nature. For instance, the process of dimming the car takes an unusually long time, and the lane keep assist system is overly intrusive.
Despite these drawbacks, the BYD Dolphin remains an appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for an electric vehicle that offers ample space and range. However, buyers must be aware of the compromises they will make in terms of driving dynamics and overall build quality.
“BYD Dolphin Review: The new budget EV of choice?”
Tiny details that matter
When it comes to the BYD Dolphin, there are plenty of tiny details that catch your attention. From the icons on the screen that seem almost miniature to the little design elements scattered around the car, every small aspect adds to its unique appeal. The sheer level of attention to detail is truly fascinating.
BYD: A company worth keeping an eye on
BYD, as a company, is a captivating force in the electric vehicle market. They are known for their swift and dynamic approach, constantly pushing boundaries and making advancements at an impressive pace. The Dolphin is a testament to their innovative mindset, and it solidifies BYD as a brand worthy of attention.
Is the Dolphin worth considering?
In its own way, the BYD Dolphin is a recommendable car. It offers an intriguing package of features and design elements that set it apart from the competition. However, with new rivals like the Ducher Spring and the Volkswagen ID2 set to enter the market within the next year, it still needs to prove its mettle.
Always conscious of its affordability
One thing that constantly lingers in your mind while driving the Dolphin is its affordability. As good as it is, it occasionally reminds you that you purchased it because of its low price tag. While its performance and features may match some higher-priced EVs, there is a slight sense of compromise that remains present.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the BYD Dolphin offers a higher spec design with impressive features like a rotating touchscreen. While the rotating screen may be seen as a gimmick, it does add versatility to the user experience. The interior quality is decent, although there are some signs of cost savings in areas like the plastics and finishes. Overall, if you’re looking for a budget electric vehicle, the BYD Dolphin is definitely worth considering for its features and value for money.
In conclusion, the BYD Dolphin presents itself as a compelling budget electric vehicle option. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as the fiddly touchscreen controls, its impressive battery and charging capabilities make up for it. With BYD’s expertise in battery manufacturing and their commitment to delivering quality electric vehicles, the Dolphin offers a promising choice for those looking to make the switch to EVs without breaking the bank.
As we conclude our review of the BYD Dolphin, it becomes evident that this budget EV is a force to be reckoned with. Beyond its charmingly quirky name, the Dolphin boasts remarkable battery technology that sets it apart from its competitors. The use of BYD Blade Battery, with its cobalt-free and environmentally friendly chemistry, solidifies the Dolphin as a top choice for those who prioritize sustainability without compromising on performance and affordability.
Overall, the BYD Dolphin offers a decent driving experience with good handling and comfortable seating. Its grip and confidence on corners are impressive, and the drive modes provide some level of customization. While it may not be the quietest electric car in terms of noise, it still delivers a satisfactory level of comfort and refinement. Considering its budget-friendly price point, the BYD Dolphin can be an appealing choice for those looking for a practical and enjoyable electric vehicle.