Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a distant dream—they’re here, transforming how we drive and live. Enter the BYD Dolphin, a compact hatchback that’s making waves with its affordability, impressive range, and modern design. Whether you’re a city commuter or an eco-conscious adventurer, this EV promises to deliver. Why settle for gas-guzzling cars when the BYD Dolphin offers a sustainable, wallet-friendly alternative? Let’s dive into what makes the 2025 BYD Dolphin a standout in the electric vehicle market.
What Is the BYD Dolphin?
The BYD Dolphin is a fully electric hatchback designed by Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams), a global leader in EV technology. Launched as part of BYD’s Ocean series, alongside models like the BYD Seal and BYD Atto 3, the Dolphin combines cutting-edge battery tech with practical features for everyday drivers. Its sleek, compact design and competitive pricing make it a direct rival to models like the MG4 EV and Nissan Leaf. Curious about what sets it apart? Let’s explore its key features.
BYD Dolphin 2025: What’s New?
The 2025 BYD Dolphin brings exciting updates while keeping its signature affordability. With a starting price of around $13,700 (RMB 99,800) in China, it remains one of the most budget-friendly EVs globally. The latest model boasts enhanced range, improved battery options, and a refined interior. According to Electrek, the 2025 Dolphin offers up to 323 miles (520 km CLTC) in its top-tier Knight trim, a significant leap from earlier models. Ready to see how it performs?
BYD Dolphin Range: How Far Can It Go?
Range anxiety is a thing of the past with the BYD Dolphin. The 2025 model offers two battery options to suit different needs:
- 44.9 kWh Battery: Delivers up to 211 miles (340 km WLTP) for the Essential and Active trims, ideal for urban commutes.
- 60.5 kWh Battery: Powers the Premium, Comfort, and Design trims with up to 265 miles (427 km WLTP) or 323 miles (520 km CLTC) in the Knight edition.
Real-world tests suggest the Dolphin achieves around 240 miles with careful driving, thanks to its efficient Blade Battery technology. This lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery ensures safety, longevity, and minimal degradation. Planning a road trip? The Dolphin’s range makes it a reliable choice for both short hops and longer journeys.
People Also Ask: How Does the BYD Dolphin’s Range Compare to Rivals?
Compared to competitors like the MG4 EV (up to 320 miles in Extended Range models) or the Nissan Leaf (up to 239 miles), the Dolphin holds its own, especially at its price point. Its efficiency—around 3.9 miles per kWh—means lower charging costs, making it a practical pick for budget-conscious drivers. Want to know more about its performance? Keep reading!
BYD Dolphin Price: Affordable EV Ownership
Affordability is the Dolphin’s trump card. In the U.S., the BYD Dolphin Comfort Design starts at approximately $30,140, while in Australia, the Essential trim dips to $29,990 before on-road costs, making it the cheapest EV available there. In China, prices range from $13,700 to $18,000 depending on the trim. These figures undercut many rivals, offering premium features without the premium price tag. Who says going electric has to break the bank?
Trim Levels and Pricing (2025)
- Vitality/Essential: $13,700 (China), $29,990 (Australia) – 44.9 kWh, 211 miles range.
- Free: $15,700 (China) – 44.9 kWh, 261 miles CLTC.
- Fashion: $16,700 (China) – 44.9 kWh, 261 miles CLTC.
- Knight/Premium: $18,000 (China), $36,990 (Australia) – 60.5 kWh, 323 miles CLTC.
These prices make the Dolphin a game-changer, especially for first-time EV buyers. Curious about what you get for the money? Let’s peek inside.
BYD Dolphin Interior: Comfort Meets Innovation
Step inside the BYD Dolphin, and you’ll find a surprisingly spacious and tech-packed cabin. The interior blends quirky design with functionality, featuring a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen that’s both a conversation starter and a practical tool. Vegan leather seats, a panoramic glass roof (on Premium trims), and dolphin-inspired touches like fin-shaped door handles add personality. How does it feel to drive? Comfortable, modern, and just a bit playful.
Key Interior Features
- Rotating Touchscreen: A 12.8-inch (or 15.6-inch in Premium trims) display supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.
- Spacious Cabin: Offers ample legroom and headroom for five passengers, rivaling the MG4 and VW ID.3.
- Storage Galore: Includes 20 storage compartments, from door bins to a two-tiered center console.
- Safety Tech: Equipped with six airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera.
The Dolphin’s interior feels plush for its price, with medium-quality materials that punch above their weight. Rear visibility could be better, but parking sensors and cameras make maneuvering a breeze. Want to customize your ride? Let’s talk colors.
BYD Dolphin Colors: Black, Pink, and More
The BYD Dolphin offers a vibrant palette, though 2025 models in some markets like Australia have trimmed options to grey and white. Elsewhere, you can choose from:
- Black/Grey: A sleek, modern look for understated elegance.
- Pink: A bold, playful choice that turns heads.
- Blue, Green, White, Brown: Versatile shades for various tastes.
While pink and purple were fan favorites, their discontinuation in some regions reflects BYD’s focus on streamlined production. Which color would you pick to make your Dolphin stand out?
BYD Dolphin Ground Clearance: Ready for the Road
The BYD Dolphin’s ground clearance is approximately 130 mm (5.1 inches), suitable for urban environments but less ideal for rugged terrain. Compared to the BYD Atto 3 (175 mm), it’s lower, prioritizing efficiency and handling over off-road capability. For city dwellers, this strikes the perfect balance. Planning to explore beyond the pavement? Check out the BYD Yangwang U8 for a more rugged option.
BYD Dolphin Mini: Is There a Smaller Version?
Rumors of a “BYD Dolphin Mini” have circulated, but no such model exists in 2025. The term likely refers to the Dolphin’s compact size (4,290 mm long, 1,770 mm wide, 1,570 mm tall), which is slightly smaller than a Chevy Bolt EV. Its nimble dimensions make it a breeze to park and navigate in tight city streets. Looking for something even smaller? The Hyundai Inster might be worth a glance.
People Also Ask: How Does the BYD Dolphin Compare to the BYD Seal and Atto 3?
The BYD Dolphin, Seal, and Atto 3 cater to different drivers:
- BYD Dolphin: Compact hatchback, budget-friendly, 211–323 miles range, ideal for urban commuters.
- BYD Seal: Premium sedan with up to 354 miles range, sportier performance, higher price point.
- BYD Atto 3: Compact SUV with 261 miles range, higher ground clearance, family-focused design.
Each model shines in its niche, but the Dolphin’s affordability and efficiency make it a standout for cost-conscious buyers. Want to know how it drives? Let’s hit the road.
Driving the BYD Dolphin: Performance and Handling
The Dolphin offers a smooth, responsive drive with instant torque typical of EVs. Its front-wheel-drive setup delivers:
- Essential/Active: 70 kW (94 hp), 0–62 mph in 12.3 seconds.
- Boost: 174 hp, 7.5 seconds to 62 mph.
- Comfort/Design/Knight: 150 kW (201 hp), 7 seconds to 62 mph.
While not a sports car, the Dolphin’s soft suspension handles city potholes well but may lean in corners. Regenerative braking and four drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow) let you tailor the experience. Ever wondered what it’s like to zip through traffic in an EV? The Dolphin makes it effortless.
Charging and Efficiency: Keeping You Moving
Charging the BYD Dolphin is convenient and cost-effective:
- AC Charging: 7–11 kW, full charge in 6–9 hours (home wallbox).
- DC Fast Charging: 60–88 kW, 30–80% in 29–38 minutes.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Power external devices up to 3.3 kW.
Its heat pump improves efficiency in cold weather, ensuring you get closer to the claimed range. With charging stations expanding globally, thanks to BYD’s partnerships, range anxiety is minimal. Ready to go green without the hassle?
Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind
The BYD Dolphin earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating, proving its safety credentials. Features like blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition keep you secure. The Blade Battery’s design minimizes thermal runaway risks, enhancing longevity. Worried about EV reliability? BYD’s eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty offers confidence.
People Also Ask: Is the BYD Dolphin Worth Buying in 2025?
Absolutely. Its low price, solid range, and feature-rich interior make it a top pick for budget-conscious EV buyers. While it may not match the handling of a Cupra Born or the range of a top-spec MG4, its value is unmatched. For urban commuters or small families, the Dolphin delivers style, efficiency, and savings. Still on the fence? Test drive one and feel the difference.
The Future of Affordable EVs
The BYD Dolphin is more than a car—it’s a statement. It proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to drive electric. With its impressive range, modern interior, and budget-friendly price, it’s reshaping the EV market. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek black exterior or the playful pink, the Dolphin offers something for everyone. Ready to join the electric revolution? The 2025 BYD Dolphin is your ticket to sustainable, affordable driving.
Soban Arshad is a car lover and founder of RoadLancer.com, sharing news, reviews, and trends from the automotive world.