BYD Dolphin EV Launched in Thailand – 44.9 kWh Battery, Up to 410 KM Range

The Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) 2023 continues to be the de facto platform for automakers to not only preview, but also launch their new models. Aside from performance models, BIMS also witnessed the launch of some new EV models, including the all-new BYD Dolphin EV hatch into the Thai market space.

Also previewed in Malaysia during the Atto 3 launch, the Dolphin EV hatch is the marque’s current smallest offering, measuring at 4,125 MM long and 1,770 MM wide, making it about 220 MM shorter and 22 MM wider than the Honda City Hatchback. Due to the lack of ICE mounted at the front hood, the Dolphin boasts a rather short front overhang, which grants it a wheelbase of 2,700 MM.

In spite of the long wheelbase and short overhangs, the Dolphin still sports the typical hatchback silhouette, featuring a grill-less front fascia. The rear part of the Dolphin looks somewhat similar to its bigger crossover sibling, the Atto 3. This EV hatch rides on partially-enclosed wheels that provide better aerodynamics for better mileage.

The Thai-bound Dolphin will be available in a single variant that harnesses a single motor layout rated at 94 HP and 180 NM, juiced by a 44.9-kWh battery pack. BYD claims that this powertrain setup grants the Dolphin a 0-100 KM/H sprint finish in about 12.3 seconds, as well as a maximum travel range of up to 410 KM based on the NEDC cycle.

The Dolphin will take about 6 hours and 25 minutes to fully charge via a 7 kW AC charging, while the DC fast charging at up to 60 kW rate will juice up the battery pack from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Like many other EVs, the Dolphin can be transformed into a giant moving power bank, thanks to the V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function.

Available in two colour options, namely the Coastal Cream and Flora Purple, the BYD Dolphin EV starts at THB799,999 (RM103,860) after factoring the EV incentives granted by the Thai government. For comparison, one of the Kingdom’s best-selling B-segment hatch, the recently-facelifted Toyota Yaris, is priced at THB694,000 (RM89,321) for the range-topping Premium S variant.

Aside from the Dolphin, BYD Thailand also previewed the BYD Seal EV saloon. This sporty four-door EV uses an 800 V EV architecture that enables it to house up to 82.5 kWh battery pack. In its range-topping form, the Seal Long Range AWD Performance is primed with a dual-motor setup that delivers up to 523 HP and maximum travel range of 650 KM.

Often described as the Tesla Model 3 rival, the Seal EV is priced at CNY 222,274 (RM140,404) in China, while the top-specced Long Range AWD Performance variant commands a heftier price tag of CNY 286,800 (RM180,998).

As we’ve previously reported, both the Dolphin and Seal might be launched in Malaysia, with the former being the most likely to make its debut soon. Given that the Thai-spec Dolphin barely breaks the RM100,000 mark, the Dolphin is in-line to be the nation’s most affordable EV, should Sime Darby Beyond Auto (SDBA) manage to keep it within or even lower the hundred-grand mark.

Currently, SDBA only sells the BYD Atto 3 which currently starts at RM149,800 for the Standard range. Meanwhile, the bigger battery Extended range commands a higher price of RM167,800 – making it one of the most affordable EVs available for sale out there.

Folks, what do you think of this compact EV hatch by BYD? Keen to see this on our road soon? Leave your thoughts in the comments below then…