BYD unveils its most affordable electric car in the UK

BYD has officially launched its cheapest electric car in the UK. The Dolphin Surf has a starting price of £18,650 but stands out from other affordable models by offering features typically associated with more premium automobiles.

The new BYD EV can last up to 200 miles between charges thanks to its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery that charges from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. The hatchback is effectively a city car but it compensates for the relatively short driving range with features typically found in more expensive automobiles, such as a rotating 10.1 inch touchscreen, intelligent cruise control, vehicle-to-load tech, and automatic emergency braking. BYD’s strategy is to reduce the costs of sensors by incorporating premium features into its entry-level models.

Meanwhile, analysts warn that BYD could crash the Dolphin Surf’s price. The company sells the near-identical Seagull model in China for about £6,000.

The UK has become an increasingly attractive market for Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. It has not slapped any tariff on Chinese brands, unlike the rest of Europe, where they face a 17.4 percent hike. As a result, UK car owners purchased 30 percent of all Chinese EVs in Europe, including from BYD, Xpeng, Leapmotor, Jaecoo, Geely, and SAIC Motors-owned MG.

The Dolphin Surf is competing with models such as the £14,995 Dacia Spring and £18,305 Citroen e-C3. BYD also sells the Sealion 7, ATTO 3, and Seal in the UK.