Video Summary
BYD Dolphin Key Points and Findings:Styling:
- BYD have done a pretty good job with styling.
- The traditional boxy family hatchback shape is distinctively electric.
- Wheels are pushed into the corners because of no engine underneath.
- The front is distinctive but not the best looking in its segment.
- There is a pattern on the filled-in grille with the BYD badge, that is replicated on the C pillar.
-"Build Your Dreams" under the rear perspex may not be to everyone's taste.
- It has 17-inch alloy wheels.
- The 2-tone paint is a really nice contrast.
- Quirky pastel colors are available.
Interior Features:
- The car is very comfortable, well-kitted out, and uniquely designed.
- The interior will give the Peugeot E208 a run for its money.
- Some may say it's a bit overdesigned or too fussy, but BYD put the effort in.
- The small family hatchback has vegan leather seats.
- Seats are comfortable and made well.
- The electric driver's seat has adjustable lumbar support.
- There are many hard plastics.
- There are a variety of plastics here.
- There's a little Alcantara on the centre part of the dash, and on the door panel.
- There's hard plastic on the glove box.
- There are also 3 levels of cubby space.
- It's a pain to get in and out; you have to bend down.
- There's no Driver grab handle.
Technology:
- The infotainment system and digital drivers display are in contrast of sizes.
- The infotainment screen is 12.8 inches and the digital dashboard display is 5.
- There's Apple car play and Android auto.
- The screen can be rotated 90 degrees (landscape or portrait.)
- BYD wants you to use the voice control functions.
- The safety system is very good.
Performance:
- With active/boost trim (smaller battery) has 93 brake hp & 180 nm of torque
- The 0–62 time is 12.3 sec.
- The range is 211 miles.
- The higher Comfort/design trim gets a larger 60.4kw battery.
- At comfort or design has 202 brake hp and 310 nm of torque with a 0-62 time of 7 seconds.
- Top speed trim maxes 265 miles.
- Braking power is okay but could do with improving.
- Three levels of braking regeneration are available (Weak, Normal, and Strong).
- There's an overhead update which sorts the power out.
Charging:
- The smaller battery comes in at 65kw charging rate.
- The larger battery comes in at 88kw charging rate.
Pros:
- It is a five-star Euro NCAP car.
- "blade" battery takes safety very seriously.
- Safety design.
- Can install Child seat in Front passanger area.
- Good range.
- Has great visibility.
Cons:
- There are a variety of plastics here.
- It does take time to get used to with the infotainment system.
- Wind noise.
- The A-pillars are large.
- It takes 3 miles for it to drop on the Guage.
- There's no Frunk.
Overall Conclusion:
- This car has potential in the UK electric car market.
- The car is well-suited for urban environments.
- Has value for money and a comfortable family car.
