1 day ago
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BYD has issued a substantial spec shuffle to bring Australia its most affordable electric vehicle, though some key features have been removed.
Electric Cars
BYD has issued a big update to its smallest and most affordable electric vehicle, with the 2025 BYD Dolphin now priced from under $30,000. This represents the first time an electric vehicle has fallen under the $30,000 price point in Australia.
While the 2025 BYD Dolphin range remains two-strong, the previous mid-grade Dynamic variant has been replaced with a brand-new Essential specification that removes equipment to get it under the $30,000 mark.
To hit the lower price, the Dolphin Essential deletes the outgoing Dynamic's panoramic glass roof, power-folding mirrors, wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and privacy glass.
The top-spec BYD Dolphin Premium has scored a $5900 discount and is now priced at $36,990 before on-road costs.
The Dolphin Essential (priced at $29,990 plus on-road costs) is fitted with a 44.9kWh battery that powers a 70kW/180Nm motor, while the more powerful Dolphin Premium boosts outputs to 150kW/310Nm. Drive is sent to the front wheels in both specifications.
BYD reports a 340km WLTP driving range for the Dolphin Essential (44.9kWh), while the bigger battery of the Dolphin Premium (60.48kWh) promises a longer 427km WLTP driving range.
Common to both cars is a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen, six speakers, DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone mirroring.
But, it's only the more expensive Dolphin Premium variant that benefits from additions including a panoramic glass roof, rain-sensing wipers, electric-folding side mirrors, and wireless smartphone charging.
The flagship Dolphin features a DC charge port that accepts recharge speeds up to 80kW, while the entry-level Essential can only reach a maximum of 60kW DC charging. Both are equipped with vehicle-to-load functionality that includes a discharge adapter.
The closest price competitor to the BYD Dolphin is the MG4 Excite 51, which costs $34,990 drive-away. However, MG recently ran significant end-of-year discounts on the MG4 which saw its entry price as low as $30,990 drive-away.
Buyers will have fewer colour options to choose from for the 2025 model year; the palette is now reduced to various shades of white and grey. The previous BYD Dolphin was available in pinks, purples, and blues – depending on which variant was chosen.
The 2025 BYD Dolphin is on sale now.
2025 BYD Dolphin price in Australia
Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs.
2025 BYD Dolphin Essential standard features:
2025 BYD Dolphin Premium adds (over Essential):
Electric Cars Guide
Tom started out in the automotive industry by exploiting his photographic skills but quickly learned journalists got the better end of the deal. With tenures at CarAdvice, Wheels Media, and now Drive, Tom's breadth of experience and industry knowledge informs a strong opinion on all things automotive. At Drive, Tom covers automotive news, car reviews, advice, and holds a special interest in long-form feature stories.
