BYD Dolphin Surf review: proof that EVs can be cheap AND cheerful!

Uploaded 1 month ago by Auto Express

Video Summary

The BYD Dolphin Surf costs just over £18,500, making it one of the cheapest new cars in the UK. The car is also known as the BYD Seagull in some markets. The car features an angry face with sharp lines, and is painted a standard color of fluorescent lime green, although black, white, and blue options are available for an additional £650 each. The 16-inch alloy wheels are pushed to the edges to maximize cabin space. The interior doesn't feel cheap, but feels less special than some competitors.

The interior tech includes a 10.1-inch central touchscreen that can rotate, plus wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A fully digital instrument panel is featured, but its small font and information make it seem cluttered and difficult to read. The material is all plastic, though different textures are used on the dashboard. A wireless charging pad is also included in the top-range model, but phones tend to slide easily within it. Two cup holders are also featured, and USB ports and a 12V outlet are included, while cabin temperature is only adjustable through the touchscreen. The car is strictly a four-seater, and there are limited creature comforts in the rear, such as no USB charging ports or air vents.

The boot offers 308 liters of space, nearly as much as a Renault 5, though there is a large load lip.

The model has a 43.2 kWh battery with a range of nearly 200 miles. It has a 154 bhp electric motor that drives the front wheels, and can reach 62 mph in 9.1 seconds. The BYD Dolphin Surf has a very light steering, smooth acceleration, and soft suspension, which makes it very easy to drive, especially in town. Though very quiet on the motorway, the highest mode of regenerative braking doesn't seem to slow down the car at all. It's thought that the BYD Dolphin Surf will attract buyers due to its low price and standard equipment, as well as the surprising amount of interior space.

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