BYD is looking to expand its footprint in the European market with the introduction of its latest electric vehicle (EV), the Dolphin hatchback. With a starting price of around $33,000, the Dolphin hatchback is set to become BYD’s most affordable EV offering in Europe and has the potential to become the automaker’s most popular model in the region.
BYD announced its plans to expand its EV lineup in Europe last summer, with the launch of three passenger EVs – the Han sedan, the Atto-3 crossover, and the Tang SUV. Since then, the automaker has launched the Seal midsize sedan, and now the Dolphin hatchback is joining the lineup.
Equipped with a 45 kWh battery pack, the Dolphin is designed to be a cost-effective option for European consumers looking to make the switch to EVs. Additionally, a larger 60 kWh battery pack is also available, offering a range of 427 km (265 miles), and will be priced at €38,000 ($42,000). Both the Dolphin and Seal feature BYD’s unique blade battery technology and sit on the automaker’s 3.0 platform.
BYD is looking to expand its sales to all major markets in Europe in the second half of this year, with Spain already having started sales last month, and Italy set to join soon. The automaker’s head of sales for the EU, Pere Brugal, has said that the Dolphin hatchback will be a part of BYD’s expansion overseas and expects the model to do well in southern Europe.
While the Dolphin will be sold in all major European markets, Brugal expects the hatchback to be more popular in southern Europe due to its lack of all-wheel drive, which may not be suitable for driving in winter conditions in northern Europe.
With its affordable price point and compact design, the Dolphin hatchback has the potential to attract a large number of European consumers looking to make the switch to electric. Furthermore, the vehicle’s unique features, such as the blade battery technology, make it a compelling option for environmentally conscious consumers who are seeking reliable, affordable, and sustainable transportation.
