The BYD Dolphin Surf has spotted the swell and paddled into the South African market with a clear and compelling proposition of a straightforward, hassle-free way to embrace electric mobility, specifically designed for urban environments and stoked to be accessible for city dwellers.
Buyers can choose between two variants—the Comfort, priced at R339 900 and the Dynamic, priced at R389 900. Both trims prioritize practicality and everyday usability over luxury features or ostentatious extras, making them especially appealing for those who value function over form.
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From the moment you get behind the wheel, the Dolphin Surf’s intentions are evident. Navigating congested urban streets, the 55 kW electric motor, coupled with 135 Nm of torque, ensures the car feels sprightly and agile during typical stop-and-go traffic. The accelerator is tuned for smooth, predictable response, reducing driver fatigue in gridlocked conditions.
The car’s compact proportions, paired with light and direct steering, make it a breeze to maneuver through narrow lanes or squeeze into tight parking spots—a frequent challenge in city driving. In this environment, the Dolphin Surf feels perfectly at ease and tailored to the swells and troughs of daily urban life.
Taking the Dolphin Surf out onto the open highway reveals the vehicle’s urban-centric engineering. While it handles everyday driving with competence, overtaking at higher speeds is a more measured affair, as acceleration becomes more gradual and less immediate.
The 0–100 km/h sprint is adequate for routine commutes, but those seeking a thrill behind the wheel or sporty performance may find it lacking in excitement. What the car sacrifices in acceleration, however, it compensates for in comfort.
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The suspension system is well-calibrated to absorb road imperfections, delivering a composed and smooth ride even over potholes or uneven surfaces. As speed increases, wind and road noise become more pronounced—an expected trade-off in a vehicle engineered for efficiency and weight reduction rather than premium insulation.
Stepping inside, the Dolphin Surf impresses with an interior that exceeds expectations for its price bracket. The cabin is thoughtfully designed, with a modern, uncluttered layout that makes all controls easy to reach and use. The materials chosen for the interior feel robust and built to withstand the rigours of daily use, conveying a sense of durability.
Rear seat space is adequate for two adults on shorter journeys, offering comfort without feeling cramped, while the 345-litre boot is practical enough for grocery runs or weekend getaways, comfortably accommodating multiple bags or everyday items. The infotainment system, while not overloaded with features, covers all essential functions—such as smartphone connectivity and intuitive operation—ensuring ease of use without unnecessary complexity or distractions.
When it comes to selecting between the Comfort and Dynamic models, much depends on your lifestyle and driving patterns. The Comfort variant, equipped with a 30,08 kWh battery and delivering an estimated WLTP range of around 232 km, is well-suited for individuals with predictable daily routines and convenient access to overnight home charging.
For those whose schedules are less regular or who require more flexibility, the Dynamic steps up with a larger 38,88 kWh battery, increasing the WLTP range to approximately 295 km. Additionally, the Dynamic supports faster 40 kW DC charging, enabling a 30% to 80% charge in about half an hour at compatible public stations—an invaluable feature for drivers on the go.
While real-world driving conditions may lead to slightly lower ranges, the Dolphin Surf’s urban energy consumption—measured at approximately 12,5 kWh per 100 km—demonstrates genuine efficiency and cost-effectiveness in city use.
Put this way – I did not have much in the way of range anxiety during the test of the Dynamic version and could comofrtably fit in a charging session with the weekly grocery shopping.
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Safety is a priority for the Dolphin Surf, rather than an afterthought. The car has earned a 5-Star Euro NCAP safety rating and comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of modern safety technologies.
Features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure assistance, and driver monitoring systems provide peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. In crash testing, the Dolphin Surf performed admirably, particularly in scenarios involving side impacts and in safeguarding pedestrians and cyclists, underscoring its commitment to urban safety.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Dolphin Surf is its low running costs, especially for owners who primarily charge their vehicles at home. Compared to traditional petrol-powered vehicles, the potential savings over time are substantial, reinforcing the financial appeal of transitioning to electric mobility. This affordability, combined with the practical benefits of EV ownership, forms a central part of the Dolphin Surf’s attractiveness.
In summary, the BYD Dolphin Surf stands out as a thoughtfully designed electric vehicle tailored for city living. It doesn’t aspire to compete with high-performance or luxury EVs; instead, it delivers on the essential qualities that urban drivers value most—comfort, durability and everyday practicality.
For South Africans who spend most of their time navigating city streets and who seek an affordable, reliable and uncomplicated electric car, the Dolphin Surf emerges as a logical and appealing choice.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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