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BYD Dolphin: battery, range and trim levels
The BYD Dolphin is a compact electric hatchback that was introduced in 2021 and has been on sale in Europe since 2023. We look at the battery options, trim levels, and what to check before buying a used Dolphin.
Dolphin at a glance
The Dolphin is a compact electric hatchback that competes with models like the MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3. It offers a spacious interior, generous boot space, and an affordable price.
The car is based on BYD's e-Platform 3.0 and uses Blade-type lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. These batteries are known for their durability and longevity, although they do have a slightly lower energy density.
Which version to choose
In Europe, the Dolphin is available with two battery capacities — approximately 45 kWh and 60 kWh. The smaller battery version is suited mainly for city use, while the larger one is better for longer journeys.
The used Dolphin market is still young, so the selection is limited. When choosing, it's important to consider the version: a larger battery offers more range but comes at a higher cost.
Engine and battery
In Europe, the Dolphin with the smaller battery has a roughly 95 hp (70 kW) motor, while the larger battery version has around 204 hp (150 kW). According to the manufacturer, the larger battery version can achieve up to approximately 430 km on a single charge according to the WLTP cycle.
Real-world range depends on weather conditions, speed, and driving style. In winter, the range typically decreases, so it's worth making your choice with caution.
What to check when buying a used Dolphin
Request the charging history and find out if fast charging was frequently used. Check the battery's health (SoH) if this data can be obtained from the service or diagnostics.
Test all electronic functions — the rotating screen, cameras, parking systems, and the BYD app. Ensure that charging cables are present and that charging works.
Verify if the car was officially introduced to the European market and if the manufacturer's warranty is still valid, including the battery.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trim levels in Europe.
Active
from 2023Base trim with a smaller battery.
- Often a smaller (around 45 kWh) battery
- Often — 16-inch wheels
- Core assistance systems
Boost
from 2023Mid-range version in some markets.
- Often — a larger battery
- Often — additional comfort features
- Often — more assistance systems
Comfort
from 2023A popular choice with a larger battery and better equipment.
- Mostly a 60 kWh battery
- Often — 16–17-inch wheels
- Often — a heated pump and more comfortable features
Design
from 2023Top trim with the most comfort.
- Mostly a 60 kWh battery
- Often — a panoramic roof
- Often — additional comfort features and wheels
Trim comparison
| Active | Comfort | Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Ideal for city use | Perfect for daily driving | For maximum comfort |
| Battery (mostly) | Around 45 kWh | Around 60 kWh | Around 60 kWh |
| Wheels (mostly) | 16 col. | 16–17 col. | 17 col. |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Comfort with a larger battery. Active is suitable for those who mainly drive in the city, while Design is for those seeking maximum comfort.
Pros
- Low price compared to competitors
- Generous standard equipment
- Spacious interior for its size
- Long-lasting LFP battery
Cons
- Still a limited supply in the used market
- Real range in winter is lower
- The brand is still relatively new in Europe
Frequently asked questions
How many miles does the BYD Dolphin do?
According to the manufacturer's WLTP figures, the version with the larger battery can cover around 430 km, but the real-world range, especially in winter, is usually lower.
How does the Dolphin differ from the Dolphin Surf?
The Dolphin Surf is a smaller, more affordable urban model, while the Dolphin is larger, more spacious, and comes with a bigger battery.
Is it worth buying a used Dolphin?
Yes, if the car has a service history and a valid warranty. Since the model is new, there aren't many long-term reviews yet.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
