BYD has introduced the Dolphin Surf to European markets, marking its 10th model available in the region.
The compact hatchback offers a WLTP-certified range of up to 507km in urban driving and can recharge from 30 per cent to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes via its 80kW–85kW DC fast-charging system, supported by an 11 kW onboard AC charger. Combined range is up to 322km.
Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and equipped with the automaker’s Blade Battery, the Dolphin Surf features a rotatable 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control accessible via a “Hi BYD” prompt, and Vehicle-to-Load functionality that allows the car to power external devices up to 3.3 kW.
Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, all underpinned by a high-strength steel body structure.
Unlike its Chinese counterpart — sold domestically as the Seagull or Dolphin Mini in several international markets outside China — the European Dolphin Surf measures 3,990mm in length, making it 210mm longer than the Seagull, while retaining the same 2,500mm wheelbase
BYD says the slightly extended body enhances interior space without compromising urban manoeuvrability.
Under the bonnet, three front-wheel-drive variants are available: the entry-level Active model pairs a 30kWh lithium-iron-phosphate blade battery with a 65kW motor for 220km of range; the mid-tier Boost retains the same motor but ups battery capacity to 43.2kWh, delivering 322km; and the flagship Comfort combines the larger battery with a 115kW motor for 310km. All versions are capped at a 150kph top speed.
The compact 8-in-1 electric drive unit integrates the drive motor, vehicle control unit, transmission, battery management controller, DC converter, motor controller, power distribution unit and on-board charger.
The Active variant starts from €22,990 (RM111,000) for the Active variant up to €24,990 (RM121,000) for the Comfort, with early-bird promotional rates for the Active at €19,990 (RM97,000) available until the end of June.
As is the practice with Chinese carmakers, the launch was accompanied by promotional pricing for the three versions of the Dolphin Surf.
The Active variant starts at €19,990/RM97,000 (regular price at €22,990/RM111,000); the Boost at €22,490/RM109,000 (regular price at €26,990/RM131,000). The Comfort version is going for €24,990 /RM121,000 (regular price at €30,990/RM150,000).
Initial units would be imported from China, with local assembly slated to begin later this year at BYD’s Hungarian plant.
The Dolphin Surf is set to compete directly with affordable European models such as the Volkswagen ID.2, Renault 5 and Dacia Spring.
BYD aims to broaden its dealer network across Germany, the UK, Belgium and other markets, leveraging competitive pricing and its established track record in China to capture share in Europe’s burgeoning small-EV segment.
