BYD Dolphin Surf: a sub-€20,000 electric city car designed for Europe

The European electric car market continues to be structured around two imperatives: meeting urban needs while democratising access to cutting-edge technologies. It is precisely in this area that BYD with the Dolphin Surf, its latest 100 % electric model, designed to appeal to drivers in Europe's major cities. 

 

Compact, agile and richly equippedThe Dolphin Surf is the latest addition to the Chinese manufacturer's range, offering a vehicle that is both accessible, technology and resolutely focused on everyday uses. With its ideal size for city centres, its Blade battery both safe and durable, its optimised autonomies and a advanced connectivityis clearly aiming to establish itself as a new benchmark in the electric city cars.

 

Present at the official model presentation, Beev had the privilege of previewing the BYD Dolphin SurfThis confirms the brand's determination to establish a long-term presence in Europe with a perfectly calibrated offering. 

 

In this article, we'll explore in detail what the Dolphin Surf has to offer, its on-board technologies, its benefits for professionals and home users alike, and why it could well shake up market standards.

Table of contents

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A clear response to European demand

A long-awaited car tailored to local needs

The arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf on the European market is no coincidence. It is part of a a carefully considered strategy offering an electric vehicle affordable, well-equipped and perfectly calibrated for European urban use. This model meets an increasingly pressing demand: that of affordable but uncompromising electric city cars, capable of combining practicality, comfort and technology.

 

Today's European drivers expect much more than just a means of transport. They are looking for clean mobility solution, economic for useA system that can be integrated into their daily lives without creating constraints.

We know that Dolphin Surf is ready for Europe, and we believe that Europe is ready for Dolphin Surf.

BYD, a global player gaining momentum in the European market

Launched with great fanfare on the Old Continent, the BYD Dolphin Surf embodies much more than just a new model: it symbolises the clear ambition of a fast-growing global manufacturer, determined to make a lasting impact on the European market. Long seen as an outsider, BYD (Build Your Dreams) has established itself over the last few years as one of the world's leading car manufacturers. the undisputed leader in new energy vehicleswith a presence in over 70 countries and more than 400 cities worldwide.

 

Founded in China in 1995The company started out as a battery manufacturer before becoming a fully-fledged automotive player, now controls the entire value chain for its electric vehicles batteries, motors, power electronics, platforms... everything is designed in-house. This integrated approach enables us to offer reliable vehicles, technologically advanced and competitively pricedat a time when Europe is accelerating its energy transition.

 

Visit less than three yearsBYD has already launched Eight 100 % electric models on the European marketThis sustained rate of growth reflects an aggressive, structured strategy. With the Dolphin Surf, the brand is now targeting a strategic segment: that of the accessible electric city carsa a niche not yet fully exploited by incumbent manufacturers.

 

This acceleration is accompanied by a concrete presence in Europe: BYD now has a regional headquarters in the NetherlandsThe company has a fast-growing distribution network, and is increasing the number of local partnerships to support its deliveries. The aim is clear: to establish a long-term foothold in Europe with models tailored to local needs, in terms of performance, style and regulations.

 

A warm welcome to Dolphin Surf, voted World Urban Car of the Year by a jury of international automotive journalists, proves that the strategy is working. BYD is not just responding to demand: it is anticipating usage and shaping a new mobility offering that is more responsible, more accessible and more connected. A dynamic that industry professionals and European users can no longer ignore.

A 100 % electric city car for European cities

Compact dimensions and urban agility

In an urban environment where every centimetre counts, the BYD Dolphin Surf ticks all the boxes of a well-thought-out city car. With just 3.99 metres longthis electric car chinoise fits perfectly into the narrow streets, tight manoeuvres and often cramped parking spaces of European city centres. It has been clearly designed to respond to the specific constraints of urban drivingwithout sacrificing on-board comfort.

Sa contained width of 1.72 metres and its height of 1.59 metres give it a compact design, while offering a high level of comfort. a reassuring stance on the road. This combination of well-balanced proportions means it combines manoeuvrability, visibility and stability - three qualities that urban mobility professionals are looking for in an electric car today.

Where certain compact vehicles struggle to offer a high real driving sensationThe Dolphin Surf has a distinctive smooth handlingIt's the ideal way to move easily through dense traffic, access underground car parks without difficulty, or thread your way through the older streets of Europe's city centres.

This is the type of intelligent vehicle, soberly dimensioned but adapted to modern needs, that many fleet managers and urban professionals today.

A sporty, functional design that stands out from the crowd

At first glance, the BYD Dolphin Surf stands out for its meticulous designboth expressive and resolutely practical. Where many city cars focus on sobriety, BYD has taken a more restrained approach. strong visual identityIt reflects both its urban vocation and its touch of whimsy.

 

The vehicle's profile reveals a flowing, continuous roof archThis line is supported by a wide body contour that rises up the sides of the car. This line is supported by a wide body contour that runs up the sides, reinforcing the model's visual dynamism. This is complemented by 15 or 16 inch wheels as standarddepending on the trim level, to accentuate its sporty look without compromising its agility.

 

One of the most striking design elements is the rear pillar, which houses a pattern inspired by ice crystalsa subtle finish that creates a unique floating roof effect visually sophisticated. This aesthetic signature, rare in this segment, gives the Dolphin Surf a style all its own, combining modernity and originality.

 

At the front, the tapered headlights This is complemented by a bumper with horizontal lines that reinforce the impression of width. At the rear, the design continues with a integrated spoiler to improve aerodynamicsand a full-width rear light bar that further emphasises the vehicle's seating position.

At the same time vibrant metallic launch colourthe " Lime Green "is also available as standard.

 

This skilful blend of sporty shapes, technical details and aesthetic elements demonstrates one thing: the BYD Dolphin Surf isn't just looking to please. It stands out as a electric city car with a strong characterdesigned to be both visually appealing and perfectly suited to urban use.

A spacious cabin despite its small size

While the exterior dimensions of the BYD Dolphin Surf are clearly designed for the city, the interior is surprisingly generous. On board, you quickly realise that BYD has made the most of every inch of its design. e-Platform 3.0 chassis to offer real comfort to its passengers, without compromising the vehicle's agility.

 

With a wheelbase of 2.50 metresThe Dolphin Surf achieves a tour de force by offering a level of space worthy of a higher segment while retaining the manoeuvrability of a city car. Both front and rear, space is well distributed, with good headroom and legroom, allowing 4 adults to travel in comforteven on long journeys.

Le 308-litre bootalready above average in this category, can be increased to 1,037 litres with the rear seats folded down. A welcome modularity, particularly for professionals or urban families who need day-to-day flexibility. And for even more practical uses, 20 storage spaces have been integrated in the passenger compartment :

 

  • empty pockets,
  • cup holders,
  • zones dedicated to charging cables,
  • compartments under the boot floor...

 

In short, everything has been designed to make life on board easier.

The seats themselves have been carefully designed: sporty at the front, they offer both maintenance and comfortwhile the rear seats are ideal for families, thanks in particular to the presence of 3 ISOFIX anchorage pointsThis is a rare asset in this segment.

State-of-the-art technology: the BYD signature

The e-Platform 3.0 platform and the battery Blade

As briefly mentioned above, behind the bold lines of the BYD Dolphin Surf lies a veritable concentrate of technology. At the heart of this urban model is the e-Platform 3.0 platform, developed in-house by BYD and designed specifically for 100 % electric vehicles. This choice of architecture is by no means insignificant: it reflects the manufacturer's determination to control the entire technological chain in order to offer a a vehicle that is efficient, safe and perfectly suited to modern use.

 

Designed to optimise space, fuel efficiency and safety, this modular platform integrates the vehicle's key components into a compact, coherent configuration. This is particularly true of the 8-in-1 electric propulsion systema technical innovation that merges into a single module:

 

  • the engine,
  • the charger,
  • the gearbox,
  • the battery controller,
  • the vehicle manager
  • current converters,
  • and other essential components.

 

Results a space savinga reduced energy losses and a better overall reliability.

But performance does not come without safety. Here too, e-Platform 3.0 scores points. The chassis structure is based on more than 68 % of high-strength steelThis ensures greater rigidity in the event of an impact and excellent roadholding.

The Blade battery integrated into this platform further enhances the occupant protection : his lithium iron phosphate composition (LFP), without cobalthas been designed to withstand extreme conditions, thanks in particular to its ability to pass the nail penetration testOne of the most rigorous in the industry, with no overheating or fires. A guarantee of safety that reassures both private individuals and fleet managers concerned about long-term reliability.

A autonomy up to 507 km

In a world where range remains one of the main criteria for choosing an electric vehicle, the BYD Dolphin Surf is reassuring. Designed for everyday journeys, it manages to combine compact size and energy enduranceThis is made possible by intelligent battery management and overall optimisation of its architecture.

 

Three versions are available: Active, Boost and Comforteach associated with a different battery capacity. The Active version incorporates a 30 kWh Blade batterywhile Boost and Comfort versions rise to 43.2 kWh.

What's more, the top-of-the-range finishComfort, is equipped with the largest battery and the the most powerful engine in its category (115 kW/220 Nm), enabling it to reach the 100 km/h in just 9.1 seconds (against 11,1 s for the Active and 12,1 s for the Boost) for a maximum speed of 150 km/h.

 

While range varies according to configuration, the Dolphin Surf is most impressive in urban driving: up to 507 km WLTP range for the Boost version. A more than competitive figure in the electric city car segment.

 

In practical terms, this means that a the average urban user could spend several days on his daily commuteor even several weeks, without recharging. This performance can be explained not only by theLFP battery efficiencybut also by the lightness and thevehicle aerodynamicsboth of which BYD has mastered perfectly.

 

Even on a mixed cycle (urban + extra-urban), the range remains very good: up to 322 km for the Boost version. In other words, the Dolphin Surf goes well beyond the simple framework of mobility within the city.

It can also be used for suburban escapades or regular business trips, without the need to recharge too often.

 

From a B2B perspective or for fleet managers, this enhanced autonomy represents a gain in operational efficiency, with less time spent rechargingThis means less stress for drivers and better vehicle rotation. For private customers, it's a welcome peace of mind: the Dolphin Surf is ready to take on everyday urban life without compromising on autonomy.

Fast, practical everyday recharging

Aware that the efficiency of an electric vehicle is measured not only by its range, BYD has equipped the Dolphin Surf with a a recharging system that is fast, flexible and perfectly suited to everyday use. The aim is clear: to make life easier for drivers, whether private or professional, by making recharging as simple as possible, both at home and on the move.

 

Visit fast terminalthe Dolphin Surf handles DC power up to 65 kW (DC) for Active versionand up to 85 kW DC for Boost and Comfort versions. This level of performance allows you to go from 10 to 80 % charge in just 30 minutes. A coffee break, and the vehicle is ready to hit the road again.

 

Worth noting The charging time of 30 to 80 % even goes down to 22 minutes for the best-equipped models.

For home recharging or recharging at public AC stations, all versions are available in the following versions compatible with three-phase 11 kW AC charging. A full charge takes approximately 3 h 30 for the Active version and up to 5 h for Boost and Comfort versionsThis provides a high degree of flexibility, particularly for charging at night or during off-peak periods.

 

This dual AC/DC device guarantees real versatility in everyday use: whether for fast charging on the motorway, planned charging at the office or plugging in at home, the Dolphin Surf adapts to all your needs. charging stations available without any headaches.

 

For the fleet managers or intensive usersThis flexibility is a major significant leverage for operational optimisation. Less time wasted recharging means more vehicle availability and less disruption to logistics.

A connected, comfortable driving experience

Intelligent digital interface and intuitive controls

Climb aboard the BYD Dolphin Surf and you'll be plunged into a world of adventure. a world of technology designed to simplify the driving experiencewithout superfluity or unnecessary complexity. Here, the ergonomics have been finely tuned to meet the expectations of modern, connected and demanding drivers, be they private individuals or professionals.

 

As soon as you sit in the driver's seat, the central feature immediately catches your eye: the10.1-inch rotating touchscreennow emblematic of BYD models. Positioned at the right height to remain in the field of vision without interfering with the road, this screen offers a clear view of the road ahead. fluid, clear and intuitive interfacefor easy access to the vehicle's essential functions.

 

Thanks to the latest generation of BYD's user interface commands can be accessed via a customisable on-screen shortcut bar. In addition, the three-finger tactile gestures allow you to quickly adjust parameters such as the air conditioning or the ventilationwithout taking your eyes off the road for too long. A real plus in terms of safety and user comfort.

In terms of connectivity, Dolphin Surf is up to date: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with 4G connectivity are integrated as standard, allowing users to return to their familiar digital environment in a matter of seconds. Music, navigation, calls : everything can be controlled directly from the screen or by voice.

 

And BYD is also banking on a effective voice control. All you need is a " Hi BYD " to activate the integrated assistant and manage a wide range of functionswithout ever taking your hands off the wheel.

Key in your pocket or smartphone in your hand, the The driver can also unlock the vehicle using an NFC sensor located on the rear-view mirror.This is a particularly practical option, especially for professionals on the move all the time.

V2L function: the car that powers your appliances

With the BYD Dolphin Surf, electromobility is no longer limited to driving. Thanks to V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) integrated as standard on all versionsthis electric city car goes one step further by becoming a a truly mobile power sourceThe new, easy-to-use and easy-to-install system is designed to meet the needs of an active and connected everyday life.

In concrete terms, the the V2L function allows electrical appliances to be connected directly to the vehicle's batterywith an output power of up to 3.3 kW. This capacity opens up a particularly wide range of uses: recharging a laptop, powering a coffee maker in a mobile living room, using a power tool on a building site or even plugging in an electric grill when out in the open air.

 

For professionals on the move, this functionality represents a major advantage. unprecedented leverage for autonomy. No need to rely on a mains socket to keep your equipment running: the Dolphin Surf becomes a power station in its own right, always close at hand. In a B2B environment, this can prove invaluable for techniciansThis is the case for all those people, craftsmen or tradesmen who frequently travel with electronic equipment.

 

But beyond professional use, V2L also meets the needs of modern private customers For example, organising a connected picnic, setting up an ephemeral outdoor office, or simply coping with an occasional power cut at home. The vehicle then becomes an everyday ally, far beyond mobility.

BYD Dolphin Surf: summary of technical specifications

BYD Dolphin SurfActiveBoostComfort
Battery (kWh)3043,243,2
WLTP combined range (km)220322310
WLTP urban range (km)356507460
Motor power (kW)6565115
Torque (Nm)135135220
0 to 100 km/h (s)11,112,19,1
Maximum speed (km/h)150150150
Max DC load power (kW)658585
DC fast recharge (10 to 80%)30 minutes30 minutes30 minutes
AC recharging (11 kW)3h305h5h
Dimensions (L x W x H, m)3.99 x 1.72 x 1.593.99 x 1.72 x 1.593.99 x 1.72 x 1.59
Wheelbase (m)2,52,52,5
Boot volume (L)308 / 1 037308 / 1 037308 / 1 037
Seating444
Rims15 inches16 inches16 inches
Price incl. VAT19 990 €23 990 €25 990 €

Availability, prices and guarantees for this future affordable electric city car

With the Dolphin Surf, BYD is aiming to hit hard in the highly coveted segment of affordable electric city cars. And with good reason: the The first deliveries are scheduled for summer 2025. in a number of European markets, including France, confirming the manufacturer's determination to quickly establish itself in the daily lives of urban motorists.

 

In terms of pricing, BYD is clearly positioning the Dolphin Surf as theone of its most affordable models. It is available from :

 

  • 19 990 € for the Active version,
  • 23 990 € for the Boost version,
  • and 25 990 € for the Comfort version.

 

Worth noting If the car doesn't benefit from an ecological bonus, BYD offers, for the launch and until the end of Junea 1,000 discount on Boost and Comfort versions.

A strategy consistent with its initial promise: to make cutting-edge electrical technology accessible to as many people as possible, without compromising on quality, safety or equipment.

 

To reassure buyers and support its growing presence in Europe, BYD is also offering a 6-year or 150,000 km manufacturer's warranty on the entire vehicleas well as a 8-year or 200,000 km warranty on the Blade battery and electric motor. This level of coverage, rare in this price range, reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the durability of its technologies.

Conclusion: a city car that understands the city... and its drivers

With the Dolphin Surf, BYD proves that it is possible to reconcile technology, practical and accessibility without compromise. This little electric car clearly ticks all the boxes of a modern city car: agile, well-equipped, reassuring in terms of range, and designed down to the smallest detail to make everyday life easier.

 

Above all, it shows that electric mobility is no longer a luxury reserved for the elite. À less than €20,000The Dolphin Surf is aimed at all those who want to take the step towards more responsible driving, without breaking the bank and without giving up the pleasure of having a car that's connected, well finished and comfortable.

 

Would you like to take your plans to go electric even further? Visit BeevOur expertise is at your service to help you every step of the way: personalised advice, financing solutions and installation of recharging stations.

Don't hesitate to consult our other blog posts to discover the world of electric mobility, or contact our experts to make your project a reality. The road to more sustainable mobility starts here, with Beev at your side.

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Picture of Maëlle Laurent
Maëlle Laurent

Committed to sustainable mobility, a sector that is revolutionising the way we travel, I contribute to the energy transition through my articles.

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