BYD Dolphin Surf | UK First Look & Drive

The all-new BYD DOLPHIN SURF has landed in the UK – a fun, future-ready compact EV designed for city life without compromise. It’s BYD’s most affordable electric car yet, but it doesn’t cut corners on design, technology, or practicality.

Key Highlights

UK pricing from £18,650 OTR (Active)

Blade Battery with two sizes: 30kWh (137 miles WLTP) or 43.2kWh (up to 200 miles WLTP / 305 miles City)

Spacious cabin and 308L boot (1,037L seats down)

Compact size (3,990mm long) but clever use of e-Platform 3.0 gives class-above space

DC charging 65–85kW: 10–80% in ~30 minutes

Standard 11kW AC charging across the range

Design

The DOLPHIN SURF mixes sharp edges with playful details. A floating roof effect, crystal-inspired C-pillar, and a full-width rear light bar give it standout character. The front features six-strip LED DRLs and bold bumper creases, while the rear spoiler improves aerodynamics.

Power & Performance

Active: 65kW motor, 0–62 mph in 11.1s

Boost: 65kW, bigger battery for max range, 0–62 mph in 12.1s

Comfort: 115kW / 220Nm, quickest in class, 0–62 mph in 9.1s
Top speed: 93 mph across the line-up.

Charging

Active: 65kW DC, 25 min (10–80%)

Boost & Comfort: 85kW DC, 22 min (10–80%)

All models: 11kW AC, 3.5–5 hours full charge

Everyday Practicality

Despite its compact footprint, the 2,500mm wheelbase delivers real family-friendly space. The cabin is designed with 20 storage areas, supportive sports seats, and clever technology like a 10.1-inch rotatable infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, and “Hi BYD” voice control.

The boot offers 308 litres standard or 1,037 litres with seats folded, beating many rivals. Three ISOFIX points (rear + front passenger) make it ideal for families.

Tech & Features

Standard on all trims: 10.1-inch touchscreen, NFC keyless entry, rear camera, rear parking sensors, V2L (3.3kW), vegan leather seats, adaptive cruise control

Boost adds: electric seats, 16-inch alloys, folding mirrors, rain-sensing wipers

Comfort adds: 360° camera, LED headlights, heated seats, privacy glass, wireless charging

V2L allows you to run devices like a coffee machine or grill straight from the car – perfect for weekends away.

Safety

Body made with 68% high-strength steel

Blade Battery passes nail-penetration test for ultimate safety

Six airbags standard

ADAS suite: lane-keep assist, AEB, adaptive cruise, intelligent high-beam, eCall, tyre-pressure monitoring, child locks

Warranty & Availability

6-year vehicle warranty

8-year battery & motor warranty

First UK deliveries summer onwards

Dimensions & Specs (summary)

L/W/H: 3,990 / 1,720 / 1,590mm

Wheelbase: 2,500mm

Kerbweight: 1,294–1,390kg

Seats: 4

Why it Matters

The BYD DOLPHIN SURF is set to shake up the affordable EV market. It delivers genuine range, clever practicality, fast charging, and strong tech at a price point that undercuts many competitors. Whether you’re looking for a first EV, a second car for the family, or a city-friendly all-rounder, the DOLPHIN SURF looks set to make waves.

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