BYD Dolphin Surf Review: The electric car revolution is well underway, and one brand that’s making serious waves in Europe is BYD. The all-new BYD Dolphin Surf is a smart, budget-friendly electric supermini packed with features that you’d usually associate with premium cars. From high-end connectivity to next-level driver assistance systems, this small EV offers tremendous value, even at its base model price of just £18,650. It may not be the fastest or most powerful EV on the market, but it’s surely one of the most accessible, especially for those moving from traditional petrol hatchbacks like the Skoda Fabia.
What makes the Dolphin Surf so appealing is how it merges technology, practicality, and affordability into a compelling package. Imagine unlocking your car from your smartwatch, or letting a friend borrow it by simply sharing a digital key. Need to charge a laptop or power a mini grill while camping? It’s possible, thanks to its external power supply (V2L). All these features are included from the entry-level Active model — which sets the tone for what’s to come in the EV market.
But there’s more than meets the eye. While the base model offers just 137 miles of range, ideal for city commutes, the brand knows customers will gravitate toward the Boost trim. This mid-range version ups the range to a respectable 200 miles and improves charging speed, offering better highway usability. Though it’s priced at £21,950, smart financing makes it only £10/month more than the base model — a calculated strategy by BYD to steer buyers toward the better-equipped option
BYD Dolphin Surf Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price (UK) | From £18,650 |
| Range (WLTP) | 137 miles (Active) / 200 miles (Boost) |
| Battery Options | 44.9 kWh (Active) / 60.4 kWh (Boost) |
| Power Output | 70 kW (Active) / 130 kW (Boost) |
| 0-60 mph | ~10.0 seconds (Boost) |
| Length | 4.0 metres |
| Rear Seating | 2 adults comfortably |
| Boot Space | Deep, generous for segment |
| Charging Time | ~30 mins (DC Fast Charging for Boost) |
| Rivals | Dacia Spring, Citroën ë-C3, Fiat Panda EV |
| Launch Date (UK) | Available now, local production in Hungary soon |
Features That Stand Out
- Smartwatch Integration: Unlock and drive the car with a smartwatch – a feature normally found in high-end EVs.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Power external devices like a laptop, coffee maker, or camping stove.
- Remote Sharing: Send digital car keys to friends or family via the app.
- Modern Infotainment: BYD’s rotating infotainment display provides access to navigation, music, and driving settings.
- Advanced Safety Tech: Equipped with all the major ADAS features for peace of mind.
Also read: Ford Mustang GT FX Package: A Retro Ride with Modern Muscle
Performance and Range
The BYD Dolphin Surf is not built for racing but delivers strong city and moderate highway performance. The Boost variant offers 174 bhp, allowing it to reach 0-60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. This makes it peppy enough for quick overtakes and smooth acceleration on motorways.
In real-world conditions, the 200-mile range on the Boost model is sufficient for daily driving and moderate weekend getaways. While the base Active trim with a 137-mile range might suffice for inner-city commutes, frequent highway drivers may find it limiting due to frequent charging needs.
Pricing, Trims & Launch Offers
| Trim | Range | Battery Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active | 137 miles | ~30 kWh (est.) | £18,650 |
| Boost | 200 miles | 44.9 kWh | £21,950 |
At launch, BYD is offering deposit contributions on PCP finance, which could bring the Boost variant’s monthly cost within £10 of the base model. This pricing strategy makes the Boost trim highly attractive for anyone looking for a practical EV without spending a fortune.
BYD Dolphin Surf Review Launch Date and Availability
The BYD Dolphin Surf is already available for orders in Europe, with deliveries starting from Q3 2025. With production ramping up at BYD’s new Hungarian factory, supply is expected to be consistent and localised, which should help avoid delivery delays often seen with imported EVs.
BYD Dolphin Surf Review Conclusion
The BYD Dolphin Surf is a standout in the budget EV segment. It combines practicality, technology, and affordability in a way that few others do. For city dwellers or first-time EV buyers, it offers a reliable and feature-rich introduction to electric mobility. While the base model is great for short trips, the Boost trim is the sweet spot for those needing a bit more range and performance.
Overall, BYD’s clever pricing strategy, generous features, and real-world usability make the Dolphin Surf a serious contender in the compact EV category. It’s not just another electric car — it’s a glimpse into the future of accessible and intelligent mobility.
BYD Dolphin Surf Review FAQs
1. Is the BYD Dolphin Surf suitable for long-distance travel?
The base variant is ideal for city use with a 137-mile range. For longer drives, the Boost trim with 200 miles of range and fast charging is a better choice.
2. How much does the BYD Dolphin Surf cost in the UK?
Prices start at £18,650 for the Active trim. The Boost trim costs £21,950 but may be more cost-effective on PCP financing.
3. What are the main competitors of the Dolphin Surf?
Its main competitors include the Dacia Spring, Fiat Grande Panda EV, Citroën ë-C3, and entry-level Renault 5 EV.
4. Does it support fast charging?
Yes, the Boost version supports DC fast charging and can go from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
