A milestone for electric mobility
The arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf is more than just a new model launch. It’s the start of a new chapter for South African motorists. For the first time, a fully electric hatchback is within reach of everyday buyers, with prices starting under R400,000.
Stand-out highlights
Price leader in its class
The Comfort trim retails at R339,900, while the Dynamic comes in at R389,900. Both represent exceptional value compared to traditional entry-level EVs.
Sized for the city
This is an urban commuter’s dream car: Compact enough for tight parking bays, yet capable enough for your daily drive. The Comfort’s 30 kWh battery offers around 232km of range, while the Dynamic extends that to nearly 300km.
Tech that makes life easier
Inside, the Dolphin Surf surprises with features like:
- A 10.1-inch infotainment screen with full smartphone integration.
- Wireless charging and electric seat adjustment in the Dynamic.
- Smart BYD app connectivity for remote locking, charging status, and more.
- Standard 7 kW wallbox charger to keep you powered at home.
Safety you can trust
A 5-star Euro NCAP crash rating makes this 1 of the safest compact EVs available, proving that affordability doesn’t mean compromise.
Why it matters
For years, the high cost of EVs has kept them out of reach for most South Africans. The Dolphin Surf changes that, proving that going green doesn’t need to cost the earth. It’s tailor-made for short commutes, school runs, and city living while challenging competitors to bring their prices down.
Points to consider
Like all compact EVs, the Dolphin Surf has a few practical trade-offs: real-world range may vary, public charging access remains key, and boot space isn’t massive. But as a value-packed entry into the world of EVs, it’s hard to beat.
Chat to King Price for a quick, commitment-free car insurance quote for your Dolphin Surf. Call/WhatsApp 0860 50 50 50 or visit kingprice.co.za today.
FAQs
- When did the BYD Dolphin Surf launch in South Africa?
It arrived in 2025, bringing a sub-R400,000 price point to the EV market for the first time. - What kind of performance can I expect?
The Comfort trim delivers about 115 kW and 220 Nm, with a top speed of around 150 km/h. - What in-car tech makes the Dolphin Surf stand out?
Features include smartphone mirroring, BYD’s connected app, and a sleek 10.1-inch touchscreen. - Is the Dolphin Surf suitable for long-distance travel?
It’s best suited to urban commuting. Longer trips are possible, but range and charging station availability should be planned carefully. - What sets the Dolphin Surf apart from other compact EVs?
It combines affordability, advanced safety, and strong warranty cover, a mix that’s rare in its price segment.