Meet the BYD Dolphin

One of the latest BYD cars: the Dolphin has now swum onto the scene. If affordable EVs with high tech interiors and sleek styling are up your alley, buckle up! We’re going to take you through the ins and outs of this new car and its amazing features.

Who are BYD?

BYD have made a splash into the car industry. Their focus on using technological innovations to create renewable energy led to their creation of the blade battery. The enhanced safety, strength, range, and lifecycle of this battery has greatly impacted their EVs making them the top selling battery EV manufacturer. Their focus on the environment is demonstrated by the fact that this Chinese manufacturer is currently the world’s largest EV manufacturer.

Interior

In terms of size, the Dolphin is practically identical to the MG4. However, there’s a clear difference between the two when you climb into the cabin. Whereas cars like the MG4 and Corsa have a more sombre dark design, the Dolphin injects fun with its interesting shapes and colours. It even has swooped door handles shaped like a dolphin’s flipper! Using a mix of faux leather and textured plastics, the interior of this car feels elaborate and quirky. You’ll definitely stand out in the driver’s seat.

There’s also a high tech feel to the car with the rotating 12.8inch infotainment screen that’s quick to respond with sharp graphics. Plus, the dashboard display moves with the steering wheel so you can always see the dash when turning. You’ll be able to have your favourite road trip playlist blaring out as you drive with the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With most of its features controlled via the infotainment screen instead of buttons, you’re in for a futuristic feeling ride.

Space

Whilst the BYD Dolphin may not be the largest car, it does make the most of the space it does have. There’s good head, leg, and elbow room in both the front and rear of the car. In fact, two 6-footers will fit comfortably in the back – the middle seat is probably best left to kids though. The flat floor also gives more foot space for rear passengers whilst there’s an array of cubby spaces for all your road trip necessities:

• Cupholders
• Door bins
• USB sockets
• A huge well under the central armrest
• Large glovebox

Plus, there’s room for your luggage in the 345-litre boot (1310 if the rear seats are folded); slightly more than the 311-litre in the Peugeot e-208 and the 338-litre in the Renault Zoe. Along with the split floor you get in the boot to increase space, there’s also a rubber mat for your muddy dogs and wellies after a walk.

Driving

This BYD car is built for comfort, so you’re sure to have a pleasant and relaxed ride.  The easily adjusted electric seats and manually adjustable steering wheel allow the driver to find their perfect driving position. Plus, it's raised slightly - similar to the VW ID.3 and Cupra Born, which offers good forward visibility. The soft suspension means the Dolphin feels more supple than the MG4 and cushier than the Cupra Born, whilst still getting predictable responses from the brake pedal, with decent grip. There’s a decent electric kick – reaching 0-60mph in 6.8s in the 150kw battery version, so you get a strong and instantaneous performance for a little wow factor.

The Dolphin is built for towns – the light-steering is great for low-speed manoeuvring, meanwhile, speed bumps and potholes are soaked up by the soft suspension. The rear parking sensors and 360-degree camera also aids in avoiding obstacles and parking in tight spaces. When it comes to motorway driving, this car feels grown up and sensible with a little road noise but not much wind noise so you can listen to your favourite podcast uninterrupted. However, it’s a good idea to switch to the sports setting when navigating country roads as it adds weighted steering and well controlled body roll so you can take the winding roads in stride.

Electric

With BYD being an EV heavyweight, it’s not surprising that the Dolphin not only has the features you’d expect from an electric car but also some extra highlights. Along with the silent engine, the battery conditioning allows for a 15% increase thermal efficiency in winter so the range isn’t affected as badly by the cold. Speaking of range: the 70kw battery offers a 211-mile range whilst the 150kw reaches 265 miles; you’ll manage a road trip in summer with little problem. Using public chargers means the battery juices up 10-80% in 40mins, or you can charge it overnight using your wall box whilst you’re sleeping. BYD also has a self-contained supply chain, as a result, you’re not having to deal with long lead times as the effects of events like Covid don’t really impact them and you get your new car quicker. 

Safety

The Dolphin has an array of safety features to give you confidence when driving:

• Pedestrian warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Driver fatigue recognition
• Traffic sign recognition
• 7 airbags
• High beam assist
• Blind spot function

Feeling secure when you’re driving is something every driver wants, and this car delivers it in spades.

Why choose the BYD Dolphin?

• Brilliant around town
• Room for all the family
• Playful interior that fits its name

So, there you have your introduction to the BYD Dolphin. Ready to dive in and start building your lease? Go ahead and order your new car 100% online on your terms.

Not feeling the Dolphin? Check out the MG4, Cupra Born, and Vauxhall Corsa and see if they stack up.

If you’re still not quite sure, our New Car Consultants are here to help find the right wheels for you. Give them a call on 0113 468 5377 (option 1) or drop them an email [email protected] to start your ZenAuto journey.