In a significant achievement for the Chinese automaker BYD, the 500,000th unit of their Dolphin compact electric vehicle (EV) has recently been manufactured, highlighting a pivotal moment in the company’s e-mobility journey. This milestone marks a testament to BYD’s successful adoption of its e-Platform 3.0-based model, introduced with the Dolphin’s launch on August 29, 2021.
As of the end of August, cumulative deliveries of the Dolphin had reached an impressive 462,558 units, with monthly deliveries consistently exceeding 30,000 units for the past six monthsāan impressive feat in the rapidly evolving EV market. In August alone, the Dolphin achieved sales of 32,745 units, marking a 39.52 percent year-on-year increase and solidifying its position as the fourth best-selling BYD model during that month.
To commemorate this milestone, BYD has introduced two new versions of the Dolphin, both starting at competitive price points of RMB 126,800 ($17,360) and RMB 139,800, respectively. These new models share core specifications with the standard version while offering enhanced assisted driving capabilities in the higher-priced variant. Additionally, both commemorative versions feature a unique red and black color scheme, setting them apart from the regular model.
In an effort to further entice potential buyers, BYD is providing attractive incentives for the Dolphin’s commemorative editions, including a 2-year 0 percent interest loan option and a RMB 2,000 trade-in subsidy.
The Dolphin’s physical dimensions measure 4,125 mm in length, 1,770 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,700 mm. With the introduction of these commemorative edition models, the Dolphin now offers a total of five versions, each catering to a different budget with starting prices ranging from RMB 116,800 to RMB 139,800.
The three lower-priced versions of the Dolphin are equipped with an electric motor capable of producing a maximum power of 70 kW and a peak torque of 180 Nm. This power enables them to accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in a swift 3.9 seconds. All three of these models are furnished with a 44.9 kWh battery pack, delivering an NEDC range of 420 kilometers. Furthermore, the Dolphin lineup boasts universal fast-charging support, with the ability to charge from 30 percent to 80 percent capacity in just 30 minutes, as outlined in its configuration sheet.
The two higher-priced Dolphin versions are driven by an electric motor generating a maximum power output of 130 kW and a peak torque of 290 Nm. This enhanced performance allows them to accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in a mere 3 seconds. Like their counterparts, these models also feature a 44.9 kWh battery pack, providing an NEDC range of 401 kilometers.