BYD has filled in the specification of the Dolphin G, the plug-in hybrid hatchback it first announced for Europe in May. First deliveries are due over the summer, with a full market launch in the autumn.
A compact built for the plug-in case
The Dolphin G measures 4,160 mm long, 1,825 mm wide, on a 2,610 mm wheelbase, making it shorter than the all-electric Dolphin (4,290 mm, 2,700 mm wheelbase) that sits alongside it in BYD’s European range. The two cars look related but serve different buyers: one electric, one plug-in hybrid.
DM-i, two power levels
The car uses BYD’s DM-i plug-in hybrid system, built around a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (95 hp) driving the front wheels alongside an electric motor. Top speed is 180 km/h, and BYD quotes a combined range of more than 1,000 km.
Two configurations are offered. The entry version makes 175 hp and 210 Nm, with a 7.4 kWh battery good for 40 km of electric range on the WLTP cycle. The rest of the range steps up to 212 hp with the same 210 Nm, an 18 kWh battery, and 90 to 105 km of electric range.
Equipment
Outside there are stretched headlights, semi-hidden door handles, a floating roofline, a single-bar taillight, and a choice of 16 or 18-inch wheels. Inside, a 12.8-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard, with vehicle-to-load power output, a panoramic roof, a 360-degree camera system, and a three-spoke steering wheel. The boot holds 425 litres, expanding to 1,225 litres with the rear seats folded.
Price
In Italy and Spain the Dolphin G is priced from 25,000 to 30,800 euros.
