BYD Dolphin Surf 2025

The BYD Dolphin Surf is positioned in the urban city car segment and aims to seduce with its value for money and equipment. Sold from €19,900, this electric car offers three variants: Active (30 kWh, 220 km range), Boost (43.2 kWh, 322 km) and Comfort (43.2 kWh, 310 km with more powerful motor). All feature an LFP battery, a technology BYD has long mastered. The Dolphin Surf targets buyers for whom daily electric mobility takes priority over raw performance.

Design and habitability

With a length of 3,990 mm and width of 1,720 mm, the Dolphin Surf retains the compact proportions typical of city cars. The 2,500 mm wheelbase remains within the standard for its class, without particularly targeting spacious rear habitability. The weight kept to 1,294 kg (on the Active version) contributes to overall energy efficiency.

The trunk offers 308 liters in standard configuration, extendable to 1,037 liters by folding the seats. This modularity suits daily commutes and small purchases, but remains limited for long trips or bulky loads. Keyless access and push-button start complement the practical access equipment.

Engine and performance

Two power levels are available. The Active and Boost versions offer a 65 kW (88 hp) engine and 175 N·m torque, limiting acceleration to standard city car pace. The Comfort version steps up to 115 kW (156 hp) and 220 N·m, sufficient to achieve 0-100 km/h in 9.1 seconds. All versions are capped at 150 km/h maximum speed, consistent with the vehicle's urban positioning.

The front-wheel drive system ensures stable traction in all conditions. No variant offers all-wheel drive, which is hardly surprising at this price point and in this category.

Range and charging

Range varies by version: 220 km (Active, 30 kWh), 322 km (Boost) and 310 km (Comfort) in WLTP cycle. These figures place the Dolphin Surf in the average of the urban city car segment. The Active version remains limited for recurring long-distance trips, while the Boost offers a comfortable buffer for commuters.

DC charging reaches 65 kW on Active and 85 kW on Boost/Comfort, allowing a 20 to 80% transition in approximately 30 to 35 minutes on a fast charger. The lack of AC charging data suggests modest power on this segment, implying longer times on domestic outlet. The LFP battery guarantees superior longevity to NCA/NCM chemistries, a major asset for value retention.

Equipment and technology

The 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen is the centerpiece of the user interface and integrates on-board navigation. This flexible orientation improves ergonomics based on preferences and current application. Adaptive cruise control is listed as standard equipment, notable for this price bracket.

The V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function allows powering external devices via a 220V outlet integrated into the vehicle, practical for job sites or leisure. The rear-view camera and parking sensors facilitate urban maneuvers. The absence of detailed information on additional driving aids (emergency automatic braking, lane departure warning) suggests a minimum ADAS package at entry level.