Barring the Nissan Leaf, which is nearing the end of its run, the electric compact hatchback segment is virtually non-existent in the U.S. However, in Europe, there’s a pool of choices for such frugal EVs. The BYD Dolphin from China is a hot new entrant in this space, and during my time at the 2024 Paris Motor Show last week, I grabbed the opportunity to check it out in detail. Here’s what I think about the new compact EV:
Design
The BYD Dolphin features a playful exterior inspired by marine life, as denoted by its name. The curvy headlights and taillamps are reminiscent of the dynamic motion of dolphins leaping from the sea. Of course, there’s no radiator grille here, with just a lower air intake at the bottom serving the cooling needs of the components.
Sharp creases on the side profile give the Dolphin an edgy look, while the rear-end, unlike on most hatchbacks, maintains a gently sloping profile. Funky alloy wheels in sizes 16- and 17-inches feature a two-tone finish, and the latter is available in a tri-color version as well. The roof integrates a large panoramic glass, the size of which BYD claims is comparable to a mid-size luxury car.
Interior
The BYD Dolphin features a light and airy interior with fluidic elements inspired by waves, most evident on the dashboard and door panels. The suspended center console with an open storage space underneath also contributes to this vibe. A cylindrical cryptex-like panel on the dashboard consists of several metallic-look switches to select/adjust the gear, drive mode, climate control, and a few other functions, adding a touch of sophistication. The center console has a similar panel, housing the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), the Auto Hold function, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) switches.
BYD uses vegan leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel of the Dolphin, something animal lovers will surely appreciate. The front seats feature 6-way (driver)/4-way (passenger) electric adjustment and heating functions. In the rear, the flat floor and a center headrest ensure the middle-seat passenger enjoys the same comfort as the outboard passengers.
My experience in the BYD Dolphin
When I sat in the BYD Dolphin at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, I immediately noticed the benefits of the car’s dedicated EV platform in terms of space and storage. The EV offers ample storage solutions: a spacious area under the center console, a box for small items, a charging mat, cup holders, and another mat specifically for phones. The headroom in the front is adequate but not great for taller passengers. The integrated headrests provide solid back support, and the ocean-themed interior adds a unique, tasteful touch.
The center console features physical buttons and knobs for the drive mode and traction settings, plus both physical and digital controls for the HVAC system, which I found convenient. The 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment display provides all necessary information without overwhelming the dashboard. The door release, designed as an extension of the door card, is a clever and distinctive feature.
In the back, the flat floor highlights its dedicated EV design, making it feasible for three adults to sit, albeit snugly. Rear seat comfort is impressive, with good back support and adequate headroom, while knee room is sufficient even with the front seat adjusted for a six-footer. Rear amenities include two USB ports, three adjustable headrests, and a solid build quality. I think BYD has crafted a surprisingly well-designed EV that feels anything but low-rent, with quality materials throughout.
Specifications
The BYD Dolphin is available in France in standard-range and extended-range variants, with a 44.9 kWh LFP battery pack and a 60.4 kWh LFP battery pack, respectively. These battery packs have a peak charging power of 65 kW and 88 kW, respectively, and charging them from 10 to 80% capacity takes as little as 38 minutes and 40 minutes, respectively.
Customers can order the standard-range variant with a low-output motor producing 70 kW (94 hp) and 180 Nm (133 lb.-ft.) of torque or a high-output unit developing 130 kW (174) and 260 Nm (192 lb.-ft.) of torque. These configurations have a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph) and 160 km/h (99 mph), respectively, and they deliver a WLTP range of 340 km (211 miles) and 315 km (196 miles), respectively.
The extended-range variant uses an even punchier motor that produces 150 kW (201 hp) and 310 Nm (229 lb.-ft.) of torque, leading to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.0 seconds. Despite more power and torque, the top speed stays at 160 km/h (99 mph). On a full charge, this configuration delivers a WLTP range of 427 km (265 miles).
Price
The Dolphin’s prices in France start at EUR 33,990, which converts to roughly USD 37,000.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
