The BYD Dolphin Surf is the Chinese brand's smallest car to launch in Europe yet and now it's available in Ireland. Prices start from €17,985 including the SEAI grant and VRT rebate for private buyers.
Where does the Dolphin Surf fit in?
We could say “almost anywhere thanks to its compact dimensions”, but that's probably not what you meant, is it? At 3,990mm long and 1,590mm tall, the Dolphin Surf is larger than its natural rivals, including cars such as the Dacia Spring, Hyundai Inster and Leapmotor T03, instead sizing up against B-segment hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris. The Dolphin Surf's 308-litre boot is also comparable to some cars' from the larger class.
What's the range of the BYD Dolphin Surf?
It depends which version you go for. The entry-level Dolphin Surf Active uses a 30kWh derivative of BYD's LFP 'Blade' battery for a WLTP range between charges of 220km. That one is limited to 65kW on a DC charger, though like all models, can make use of three-phase AC charging at up to 11kW. A front-mounted electric motor produces up to 88hp.
Next up the ladder is the Dolphin Surf Boost, priced at €22,230. This retains the 88hp motor, but the battery is upgraded to 43.2kWh, meaning an official range of 322km. This is the longest-range version in the lineup and brings with it the ability to charge on suitable DC outlets at up to 85kW.
Topping the lineup is the Comfort version, using the bigger battery with a more powerful electric motor. It puts out a perky 156hp, resulting in a 9.1-second 0-100km/h time (some three seconds faster than the Boost model manages). The official range drops a little, to 310km, but there's unlikely to be a big difference between them in real-world usage.
Is the Dolphin Surf well-equipped?
Undoubtedly. All versions get a 10.1-inch touchscreen (rotatable, as is BYD's way) featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, synthetic leather upholstery and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, plus a long list of safety features.
The Boost model gets larger wheels (16-inch rims versus 15-inch), electrically adjustable front seats, electric-folding door mirrors and automatic wipers, while the Comfort version also includes a 360-degree camera system, heated front seats, wireless phone charging, auto headlights, puddle lights and rear privacy glass.
Is the Dolphin Surf safe?
Coincidentally, on the same day the BYD Dolphin Surf was launched to Irish motoring media, Euro NCAP announced an impressive five-star rating for the new EV, something few cars in the A-segment have managed thus far. Read the full Euro NCAP report on the BYD Dolphin Surf.
What's next from BYD?
If you think the Chinese company has been moving quickly already, apparently that's nothing in comparison to what's coming next year, with at least six new cars expected to launch from BYD in Ireland in 2026.
The Atto 2 will arrive before that and we believe the BYD Seal 6 DM-i is on the way, too, so watch this space for more.
To cope with demand, the custodians of the BYD brand in Ireland - Motor Distributors Limited - plans to expand its network from 11 outlets at present to 20 in the near future.