Discover the 2024 BYD Dolphin: Review of the Affordable EV Hatch

Welcome to our review of the 2024 BYD Dolphin, the most affordable electric vehicle on the market in Australia. If you're looking to make the switch to an electric car, the BYD Dolphin offers an excellent option that won't break the bank. This stylish hatchback aims to compete with popular small cars like the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3, while also providing a greener alternative to other electric vehicles on the market.

The 2024 BYD Dolphin comes with a host of impressive features as standard, ensuring you get exceptional value for your money. With a driving range of up to 340km, you'll have plenty of freedom to explore the city and beyond without worrying about running out of power. And with two variants available - the Dynamic model and the Premium model - you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Key Takeaways:

• The BYD Dolphin is the cheapest EV in Australia
• It competes with popular small cars and other electric options
• Comes with an extensive list of standard equipment
• Two variants available: Dynamic and Premium
• Driving range of up to 340km

The new BYD Dolphin, available in the 2024 model year, offers two variants: the Dynamic model and the Premium model. The Dynamic model starts at $38,990, while the Premium model is priced at $44,890. Both models come with a range of impressive features.

Dynamic Model

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• Fake leather trim
• Power adjustable and heated front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• 12.8-inch central touchscreen

Premium Model

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Two-tone paint options
• Multi-link rear suspension
• Power adjustable and heated front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• 12.8-inch central touchscreen

In addition to these features, both the Dynamic and Premium models of the BYD Dolphin are equipped with a 5-inch digital instrument cluster and support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on the 12.8-inch central touchscreen.

The BYD Dolphin, released in 2024, prioritises safety to protect you on the road. With its five-star ANCAP safety rating, the vehicle meets the rigorous safety standards set by the 2023 protocols. Count on advanced safety features that come standard, including:

• Dual front airbags
• Side front airbags
• Side curtain airbags
• Centre airbag between front occupants

Additionally, the Dolphin is equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as:

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot warning
• 360-degree camera

The Dynamic model of the BYD Dolphin scored an impressive 77% in the safety assist score. If you opt for the Premium model, you'll enjoy even more safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and emergency lane keep assist. Rest assured that the BYD Dolphin is designed to prioritise your safety on the road.

The 2024 BYD Dolphin is a new car that boasts a spacious cabin with high-quality materials and finishes, exuding a sense of luxury. The interior design is thoughtful and well-crafted, with circular air vents and door handles that add a touch of elegance. The seats are not only comfortable but also have a sporty vibe, thanks to the fixed headrests.

One of the standout features of the Dolphin is its spaciousness, with ample legroom and headroom in the back seat, making it a comfortable ride for passengers of all sizes. The car also offers well-thought-out storage options, including door pockets and a storage tray under the centre console, allowing you to keep your belongings organised and within easy reach.

In terms of design, the Dolphin is slightly different from other BYD models, with a more angular front end and a more pronounced grille. The car also features a new steering wheel design and a revised interior layout. The premium variant of the Dolphin also includes extras such as a panoramic sunroof and a powered driver's seat.

Tech Features

In addition to its well-designed interior, the BYD Dolphin comes equipped with an array of impressive tech features. The highlight is the 12.8-inch touchscreen display, which provides a bright and clear interface for accessing various functions. With its logical menus, navigating the touchscreen is intuitive and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Whether you're navigating through your favourite music playlist or accessing smartphone apps, the Dolphin offers seamless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to effortlessly access your smartphone's features and applications on the touchscreen display, keeping you connected without distractions.

With the BYD Dolphin, you can enjoy a blend of comfort, style, and advanced technology in one package. Its spacious cabin, attention to detail, and impressive tech features make it a compelling choice for those looking for a modern and well-equipped electric vehicle.

The BYD Dolphin, introduced in 2024, is equipped with LFP (lithium ferrous phosphate) batteries, offering a cost-effective solution compared to NMC batteries commonly found in other EVs. While LFP batteries have a lower energy density, they contribute to the affordability of the Dolphin.

The Dolphin is also equipped with a 60.5kWh battery, which provides a claimed WLTP range of 427km. Although BYD claims a range of 427km, some tests have shown that the car can go beyond that, with one test car managing 450km on a single charge. The car also features a heat pump as standard, which helps to preserve range in colder conditions.

When it comes to charging, the BYD Dolphin supports AC and DC charging options. AC charging, with a capacity of up to 7kW, enables a full charge in approximately seven hours, providing convenience for overnight charging. On the other hand, DC charging can be done at up to 60kW, offering faster charging times for those on the go.

The 2024 BYD Dolphin offers a comfortable and smooth ride, thanks to its supple suspension. However, its handling is not particularly athletic, and the electronic driver assist systems could benefit from further refinement to enhance the overall driving experience.

The Dolphin is powered by a single electric motor that comes in two different power outputs, depending on the model. The Dynamic model features a 70kW motor with 180Nm of torque, while the Premium model boasts a more powerful 150kW motor with 310Nm of torque. Although the Dolphin's acceleration is modest, with a 0-100km/h time of 12.3 seconds in the Dynamic model and 7.0 seconds in the Premium model, it delivers a comfortable and efficient driving experience.

One notable feature of the BYD Dolphin is its regenerative braking system, which allows the vehicle to recover energy when the driver lifts off the throttle, improving overall efficiency and extending the driving range. This innovative technology is just one of the many ways that the Dolphin sets itself apart as a top choice in the electric vehicle market.

In terms of specs, the Dolphin comes equipped with a 44.9kWh battery, which provides a claimed range of up to 427km on a single charge. The car also features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a range of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.

The 2024 BYD Dolphin offers a cutting-edge 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing seamless connectivity and entertainment options for your journey. With compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can easily connect your smartphone to the infotainment system, allowing you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and stream music effortlessly. The touchscreen display can also be rotated by 90 degrees, giving you the flexibility to choose the viewing mode that suits you best. However, it's important to note that Apple CarPlay functionality is limited to landscape mode.

In addition to the advanced infotainment system, the BYD Dolphin also features wireless phone charging, allowing you to conveniently charge your device without the hassle of cables. This feature is especially useful when you're on long drives and need to keep your phone charged. Plus, with the inclusion of a 360-degree camera, you can enjoy a comprehensive view of your surroundings, providing added safety and peace of mind during parking and maneuvering.

The BYD Dolphin also comes equipped with a 5-inch digital instrument cluster, providing essential vehicle information at a glance. Whether it's your speed, battery level, or range, the instrument cluster ensures that you have all the key details right in front of you. This feature is especially useful when you're driving long distances and need to keep an eye on your car's performance.

As the cheapest electric car in Australia, the BYD Dolphin offers exceptional value for money. With a starting price of just $39,990, it's an affordable option for those looking to switch to an electric vehicle. And with its impressive range of up to 427km on a single charge, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you can drive long distances without needing to recharge.

The 2024 BYD Dolphin is an affordable EV hatchback option that offers a compelling choice for Australian drivers. With its competitive pricing and extensive list of standard features, the Dolphin provides excellent value for money. The respectable driving range of up to 427km ensures that you can go the distance without worrying about recharging.

While the BYD Dolphin may not have the same level of refinement and performance as some of its competitors, it still offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The five-star ANCAP safety rating gives you peace of mind, knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected.

If you're in the market for an affordable EV hatchback, the 2024 BYD Dolphin is definitely worth considering. With its combination of affordability, standard features, and a respectable driving range, it ticks all the boxes for those looking to embrace the future of electric vehicles.

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What is the 2024 BYD Dolphin?

The 2024 BYD Dolphin is an affordable electric hatchback vehicle produced by the Chinese automaker BYD.

What are the dimensions of the BYD Dolphin?

The specific dimensions of the BYD Dolphin are 4023mm in length, 1694mm in width, and 1503mm in height.

What is the BYD Dolphin Dynamic?

The BYD Dolphin Dynamic is a variant of the 2024 BYD Dolphin, offering specific features and design elements.

Can you provide a review of the 2024 BYD Dolphin?

Yes, we have a comprehensive review available for the 2024 BYD Dolphin, covering its features, performance, and more.

Does the 2024 BYD Dolphin support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, the 2024 BYD Dolphin is equipped to support both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

What are the available models of the BYD Dolphin?

The BYD Dolphin is available in different models including the Dolphin Dynamic and Dolphin Premium, each offering specific features and options.

Is the BYD Dolphin known for being Australia’s most affordable electric car?

Yes, the BYD Dolphin has gained recognition as Australia's most affordable electric car, offering an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers.

What are some key features of the BYD Dolphin Premium?

The BYD Dolphin Premium model includes features such as a larger battery capacity, panoramic glass roof, climate control, and more.

Is the BYD Dolphin suitable as a family car?

With its spacious interior and practical features, the BYD Dolphin can serve as a suitable option for a family electric vehicle.

Where can I find the 2024 BYD Dolphin for sale in Australia?

The 2024 BYD Dolphin is available for purchase at authorised dealerships and select automotive outlets across Australia.