The Chinese EV price wars have tightened, with BYD, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, launching its highly anticipated Dolphin model in Australia, marking a new milestone as the most affordable electric car in the country.
The Dolphin comes with a starting price of $38,890, undercutting the entry-level MG4 announced by competitor MG Motors by $100.
This marks a pivotal moment in Australia's EV market, presenting for the first time two electric car options under the $40,000 price bracket.
Furthermore, this development adds to the dynamism of the Australian EV market, which has seen a doubling in size in 2023 and is entering a new phase of competition and pricing.
Making a splash in Australia on 22nd June - BYD Dolphin takes the waters by storm.Join us on a journey through the BYD Dolphin launch event.#BYD #BYDAU #BYDDOLPHIN pic.twitter.com/jrmXfSnH0D
— BYD Asia Pacific (@BYD_AsiaPacific) June 22, 2023
340 kilometre range
The $38,890 price tag applies to the Dolphin's Dynamic variant. This model is expected to qualify for most state and territory subsidies, excluding those in Victoria, which are set to end by the end of June.
The Dynamic variant features a 44.9 kWh BYD Blade battery, offering a range of 340 kilometres and is fitted with 16-inch wheels.
It outperforms the recently announced MG4 Excite variant on pricing while maintaining an impressive array of safety features standard to both models.
Safety on par with premium vehicles
These safety features, typically found in more premium vehicles, include driver and passenger airbags, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking system, blind spot detection and numerous collision warning systems, among others.
Furthermore, the new Dolphin model supports fast charging, with charging speeds depending on the variant.
The Dynamic variant can charge up to 60 kW with its 44.9 kWh battery.
Poised to make EVs more accessible
Set to release later this year, the Dolphin signifies a notable shift in Australia's transition to EVs.
The lack of electric hatchback options has been a challenge for the country's market, but recent developments, including this latest release from BYD, are set to change that narrative.
This development brings the spotlight on electric hatchbacks and is poised to make EVs more accessible to thousands of Australians in the coming months.