BYD has launched the Dolphin Cargo in the UK, introducing a compact electric light commercial vehicle derived from the Dolphin passenger hatchback. The new model is available to order through participating BYD retailers, with prices starting at £29,358 excluding VAT (£36,305 including VAT).
The Dolphin Cargo has been developed through a UK-based conversion programme that transforms the standard Dolphin hatchback into a commercial vehicle. The process involves the permanent removal of the rear seats and installation of a full metal bulkhead behind the front seats, creating a dedicated cargo area tailored to the needs of fleet and business users.
UK Conversion Creates Compact Electric Cargo Van
The conversion provides a total load volume of 1,093 litres, including a 47-litre underfloor storage compartment. The load area offers a maximum length of 1,250 mm, a width of up to 1,160 mm, and a height of 710 mm, while maintaining the vehicle’s compact overall length of 4,290 mm.
To enhance durability, the cargo compartment features a phenolic ply-lined floor, hardwearing door cards, and bumper protection film as standard. Businesses seeking additional security can also opt for polycarbonate rear window panels.
Up to 347 Miles of Urban Driving Range
Power comes from a 204 PS electric motor paired with a 60.4 kWh battery pack utilizing BYD’s lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade Battery technology.
BYD claims a WLTP city driving range of up to 347 miles, while the combined WLTP range is rated at 265 miles. The company says the Blade Battery’s cobalt-free chemistry delivers enhanced durability, improved safety, and greater resistance to extreme temperatures compared with conventional battery technologies.
The company also offers an optional 70 mph speed limiter designed to help fleet operators optimize efficiency and energy consumption.
Commercial Features and Vehicle-to-Load Capability
Based on the Dolphin Comfort trim level, the Dolphin Cargo includes a range of features that are typically uncommon in the light commercial vehicle segment.
Standard equipment includes Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the vehicle to power external equipment directly from its battery. The feature can support mobile servicing operations, construction and maintenance work, portable lighting, and tool charging.
Additional standard features include a heat pump, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree parking camera, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Fleet-Focused Customisation Options
BYD said a variety of bespoke upfit solutions can be supplied to meet the needs of commercial customers. Available options include reversing alarms, amber warning beacons, vehicle livery packages, and customized storage systems.
The automaker says the Dolphin Cargo is intended to provide fleet operators and businesses with an affordable electric commercial vehicle that combines practical cargo capacity with the technology and efficiency benefits of BYD’s passenger EV platform.
“Taking the award-winning DOLPHIN hatchback as a starting point, the conversion into a light commercial vehicle (LCV) is carried out in the UK, supporting local engineering expertise while ensuring the vehicle is tailored to meet the specific requirements of British commercial operators.”
“Built on the acclaimed BYD DOLPHIN passenger car platform, the DOLPHIN Cargo e-Van combines a robust commercial conversion with class-leading electric vehicle performance, delivering an ideal solution for modern fleet and business users.”
BYD added that fleet support for corporate customers is available through the company’s UK Corporate Sales Team.