The Chinese automaker plans to expand its European and UK line-ups by the end of this year.
BYD Dolphin
The Dolphin is going to be BYD’s entry-level model. The EV has been redesigned specifically for European release with a slightly larger wheelbase, making it almost 30cm longer than the Vauxhall Corsa-e.
Sitting between a large supermini and a compact hatchback, the Dolphins’ unique shape means that it can provide more passenger space than many of its market rivals. A 345-litre boot can extend to 1,310 litres when you fold down the rear seats.
The new EV will arrive with some impressive specifications too, which includes a 60kWh battery capable of providing a 265-mile range. A front-mounted motor will also help to deliver 204bhp to the front wheels allowing the Dolphin to go from 0-62mph in just 7 seconds.
4 trim levels, that are yet to be named, are expected for the model. These will be available in a variety of bright and vibrant colours.
On the inside, a 12.8-inch infotainment system that matches the Atto 3 sits in the centre of the dash. This can be rotated into portrait and landscape layouts.
UK pricing is still unknown however, on the continent, customers will be able to purchase the Dolphin for between €30,000 and €38,000 when orders open later in the summer.
Expect to see the Dolphin land in the UK before the year ends.
BYD Seal
BYD’s next new arrival comes in the form of the Seal saloon which is hoped to add competition to the fiercely contested electric saloon market.
Also based on BYD’s e platform 3.0, The Seal uses Cell To Body (CTB) construction which helps to increase floor space by making the battery a structural component of the chassis.
The Seal’s wheelbase is just 5cm longer than the Tesla Model 3 and 3cm shorter than the Hyundai IONIQ 6.
There’ll be two drivetrain options to choose from. An entry-level rear-wheel drive model provides 308bhp and an all-wheel drive option gives 523bhp. Both will come with a large 82kWh battery pack.
This means that the rear-wheel option can travel 354 miles on a single charge with a 5.9 seconds 0-62mph time whilst the all-wheel option can go 323 miles with a 3.8 second 0-62mph time.
On the inside, an even larger 15.6-inch infotainment display beats the offerings on the Atto 3 and the Dolphin. This screen can also rotate into a portrait layout.
No details have been released about pricing yet, but you can expect the Seal to come close to Tesla’s £41,000 Model 3 starting price.
