The BYD Dolphin Surf: A New Affordable Electric Car Option in the UK
The BYD Dolphin Surf is set to make waves as one of the most budget-friendly electric cars in the UK market when it hits dealerships later this year. Originally known as the Seagull in China, where it boasts a price tag of approximately £8000, the model is undergoing enhancements to meet European and UK standards, including the addition of advanced safety features.
Executive vice-president of BYD, Stella Li, has emphasized that while the Dolphin Surf may not be the cheapest option available, it will offer unparalleled value for money.
Expected to be priced below £20,000 and with a range exceeding 200 miles, the Dolphin Surf is likely to compete with models such as the Dacia Spring, currently the most affordable electric car on the market. It is anticipated to undercut rivals like 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 190 miles and 252 miles respectively. Customers can also select between 74bhp and 100bhp motors for varying performance levels.
While known as the Dolphin Mini in some markets, the model will be introduced as the Dolphin Surf in the UK and Europe. Preceding its launch will be the arrival of the Sealion 7, the latest addition to BYD’s expanding range in the UK.
BYD’s UK country manager, Bono Ge, has revealed plans to increase the brand’s dealership network from 62 to 120 by the end of the year, with a long-term target of 150-170 outlets, aligning with major manufacturers like Ford and Vauxhall.
With ambitions to surpass last year’s sales figures of 8700 units by the end of the current month, BYD aims to establish itself as a key player in the UK market. Ge hinted at the possibility of sales exceeding 100,000 units to solidify BYD’s position as a top contender in the automotive industry.
BYD has also introduced its own 1360kW chargers with dual charging ports, positioning itself as a competitor to Tesla’s Supercharger network. While plans to launch these chargers in the UK are in the pipeline, it may take some time before they become available to British consumers.
