BYD Dolphin Surf: The Affordable Electric Car Set to Make Waves in the UK
The upcoming BYD Dolphin Surf is set to shake up the UK electric car market with its affordable price tag. Originally known as the Seagull in China, where it retails for around £8000, the Dolphin Surf will be tailored for the European market with added safety features and sophistication.
Executive vice-president of BYD, Stella Li, has emphasized that while the Dolphin Surf may not be the cheapest electric car available, it will offer the best overall value. Expected to be priced below £20,000 and with a range of over 200 miles, the Dolphin Surf will likely undercut competitors such as the Fiat Grande Panda and Citroën ë-C3.
In China, the Dolphin Surf is offered with a choice of 30kWh or 38kWh battery packs, providing ranges of up to 252 miles. Customers can also choose between 74bhp and 100bhp motors for varying performance levels. The model is also known as the Dolphin Mini in some markets but will be launched as the Dolphin Surf in the UK and Europe.
Before the arrival of the Dolphin Surf, BYD will introduce the Sealion 7, expanding its electric car lineup in the UK. With plans to increase its number of dealers from 62 to 120 by the end of the year, BYD is positioning itself as a major player in the UK market, aiming to achieve brand awareness comparable to industry giants like Ford and Vauxhall.
BYD’s ambition to become the world’s largest car maker includes plans to introduce its own-brand 1360kW chargers, rivaling Tesla’s Supercharger network. While these chargers are not yet available in the UK, BYD is looking towards future expansion.
As BYD continues to gain traction in the UK market, surpassing last year’s sales figures and increasing brand awareness, the Dolphin Surf is poised to make a significant impact as one of the most affordable electric cars available. Stay tuned for the launch of this game-changing vehicle later this year.
