BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, has officially launched the BYD Dolphin Surf in South Africa, marking a significant milestone in making electric mobility accessible to everyday drivers across the country. Stylish, practical, and priced to sit firmly in the mass-market bracket, the Dolphin Surf is set to transform the local automotive landscape by proving that electric vehicles can be both affordable and aspirational.
Now available in two distinct models, the Dynamic and the Comfort, the Dolphin Surf is designed to be a fun, safe, and practical vehicle that makes zero-emission driving accessible to a wider market.
An EV Designed For Urban Living
At the heart of the Dolphin Surf is BYD’s groundbreaking Blade Battery and purpose-built e-Platform 3.0, which deliver unmatched levels of safety, efficiency, and performance. The Dolphin Surf’s body structure uses 61% high-strength steel, ensuring maximum protection without compromising on driving comfort.
The Dynamic model is equipped with a 38.8 kWh Blade Battery, offering a WLTP combined range of 295 km. It delivers 55 kW (75 PS) of power to the front wheels and supports DC charging up to 40 kW, allowing for a 30-80% charge in just 30 minutes. The Comfort model features a 30 kWh Blade Battery with a WLTP combined range of 232 km, powered by a 55 kW front-wheel-drive motor with a maximum DC charging rate of 30 kW.
Both models are front-wheel drive and ride on 16-inch steel wheels, delivering a nimble yet confident drive.
A Smart Cabin That Keeps You Connected
Both models offer an intuitive and connected cabin experience. The interior features a vibrant, 10.1-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital instrument panel, and voice control activated by a simple “Hi, BYD.” For added convenience, the cabin includes a 15W wireless charging pad and a built-in karaoke function for a truly unique driving experience.
Contemporary Design, Everyday Practicality
The Dolphin Surf’s exterior design is both playful and sporty, featuring a sleek roof with an integrated rear spoiler, full-width LED tail-lights, and stylish 16-inch alloy wheels. Practicality is a key design element, with 20 smart storage solutions throughout the cabin and a 230L boot capacity that expands to 930L with the seats down. Keyless entry via an NFC key and BYD App control further enhance the user experience.
Charging Convenience and Energy Versatility
The BYD Dolphin is more than just a car; it’s a mobile energy source. The Vehicle-to-Load (VtoL) function allows users to “charge up the party,” using the car’s battery to power external devices. Each vehicle includes a 7 kW Home Charger Wall Box, a 3-7 Charger, and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) socket, ensuring a seamless charging experience from day one.
“The BYD Dolphin Surf represents a pivotal moment for electric mobility in South Africa,” says Ming Xing, Brand and Marketing Manager at BYD South Africa. “We are bringing a truly affordable and well-equipped urban electric vehicle to the mass market. This isn’t just about making EVs available; it’s about making them a viable, attractive option for everyday South Africans. We are confident that its combination of safety, range, and smart features, all at a highly competitive price point, will make it a game-changer.”
BYD is backing the Dolphin Surf with a robust warranty and service package: a 3-year/60,000 km Service Plan, a 3-year/100,000 km Complete Vehicle Warranty, and an 8-year/200,000 km Power Battery Warranty.
Pricing:
BYD Dolphin Surf Dynamic: R389,900
BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort: R339,900
The arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf follows a highly successful consumer activation at Cape Town’s Battery Park, where the public was invited to see, touch, and experience the vehicle ahead of its official launch. Visitors explored the Dolphin Surf up close, signed up for nationwide test drives, and enjoyed a vibrant day of activities and entertainment. Highlights included karaoke and a claw machine, powered by the EV itself, along with yoga sessions, exciting giveaways, a coffee truck and much more.
