The new 2023 BYD Dolphin compact electric hatchback has been launched in China. Available in 3 models, the Dolphin EV is priced between 116,800 yuan and 136,800 yuan (PKR 37.97 lac to PKR 44.47 lac).
Built on BYD’s e-platform 3.0, powered by the LFP Blade batteries, the Dolphin EV was designed under the “Marine Aesthetics” theme, developed by BYD’s chief designer Wolfgang Egger, who previously worked for Audi as head of design and joined BYD back in 2017.
The Dolphin comes available in 4 monotone & 3 dual-tone colors, with names perfectly reflecting the marine theme too. These include Beibei Grey, Cheese Yellow, Surfing Blue, Altantis Grey, Taro Purple, Coral Black, and new Pupu Pink. According to BYD, Pupu refers to a style of Hawaiian/ American-Chinese food whereas pink comes from a sunset at a tropical shore.
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BYD Dolphin measures 4,070/1,770/1,570 mm with a 2,700mm wheelbase while allowing customers to choose from either 16 or 17-inch wheels. While the 2,700 mm wheelbase is exactly the same as we have here with the 11th gen Corolla, the dimensions make the Dolphin marginally shorter than the Peugeot 2008, bear in mind the French crossover has a 2,605 mm wheelbase.
The interior which beautifully reflects the marine design theme, boasts a flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel, a 5-inch full LCD instrument panel, and a 12.8-inch floating central control screen. The 2023 model has been upgraded to offer real-time tire pressure monitoring, front seat heating, a 4-way electronically adjustable passenger seat, 6-way electronically adjustable driver seat, a rear center armrest with a cup holder, front parking radar, powered side mirrors, and a seatbelt warning system. In addition to the current three driving modes of energy saving, snow, and sports, the new BYD Dolphin now offers a new comfort mode as well.
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The 2023 BYD Dolphin comes equipped with a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor with two output options: 70 kW/180 Nm and 130 kW/290 Nm. The corresponding pure electric drive range is 420 km and 401 km while the 0 to 100 km/h sprint times are 10.9 seconds and 7.5 seconds, respectively. The electric motor is mated to a 44.9 kWh BYD LFP Blade battery pack and supports 60kW fast charging.
First introduced in mid-2021, the Dolphin EV is among the handsome sellers in the BYD lineup with a monthly sales average of well over 25,000 units since the beginning of this year. According to BYD, 26,029 units of the Dolphin were sold in November 2022, which is a year-on-year increase of 195.8%. The vehicle is also destined to be introduced in various international markets including Japan & Australia from 2023 onward.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
