BYD Set to Launch Dolphin Electric Hatchback in South Africa, Rivaling Top EV Markets

Satori News Agency, South Africa - BYD, China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, is taking another bold step into the South African market with plans to release its Dolphin hatchback in the first half of 2024. This move follows the introduction of the Atto 3 SUV EV, marking the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the burgeoning South African EV sector.

The Dolphin's pricing strategy is set to make waves, with an entry-level figure of R550,000, positioning it as a competitive contender against other players in the market. In a conversation with EV Charge co-founder Roberto Bruzanitti, a representative of BYD revealed that South Africans could expect the launch around March or April 2024, indicating BYD’s dedication to a prompt market entry.

Designed for efficiency and performance, the Dolphin comes with two powertrain options. Prospective buyers can choose between a 70kW motor with 180Nm of torque or a more robust 150kW motor delivering 310Nm. The latter ensures a sprightly 0–100 km/h sprint in approximately 7 seconds, highlighting the vehicle’s brisk performance capabilities.

Reflecting market preferences for right-hand drive, the Dolphin mirrors configurations named Dynamic and Premium in Australia. The Dynamic is equipped with a 44.9kWh battery capable of 340km range as rated by the WLTP cycle, complemented by convenient charging capabilities ranging up to 60kW for DC and 7.4kW for AC.

For those consumers desiring extended range and quicker charging, the Premium version delivers, hosting a 60.5kWh battery allowing for up to 427km per charge. This model enhances charging rates to 88kW DC and 11kW AC, catering to a broad spectrum of charging infrastructure and user needs.

Inside the vehicle, occupants are treated to a variety of high-tech amenities without compromising on style, albeit with a slightly more subdued aesthetic compared to the eye-catching Atto 3. It also features a standout 12.8-inch rotatable display at the center, fusing functionality with futurism.

Safety accompanies the Dolphin's innovative design, as it boasts a celebrated 5-star rating from both Euro NCAP and Australian NCAP, ensuring that it meets stringent international safety benchmarks.

Australian models come with a range of standard features reflecting BYD's commitment to value. Additionally, they carry a 6-year/150,000km warranty in Australia, underscoring the manufacturer’s confidence in the vehicle's reliability.

While the South African variants’ full details have yet to be confirmed, BYD's aggressive pricing strategy places the Dolphin substantially below the current most affordable passenger EV, the GWM Ora, and the entry-level Atto 3. Such strategic pricing ensures that BYD’s new offering is set to make a significant impact on the South African electric vehicle market.

In global markets like Australia and the UK, the Dolphin has garnered a range of reviews from moderate to favorable, suggesting a warm reception upon its imminent arrival in South Africa. With the increasing focus on sustainability and a shift towards electrification in the automotive sector, BYD’s Dolphin is poised to be a substantial player in driving the electric revolution in South Africa.