BYD makes a splash with Dolphin electric SUV in NZ

The BYD Dolphin is priced from $49,990 and has a range from 340km. Photo: BYD

After the success of the award-winning Atto3, Chinese brand BYD has now added the Dolphin to its New Zealand line-up.

Priced from $49,990, the BYD Dolphin is the first model in the “Ocean” series for the brand, providing a dynamic, stylish, and highly recognisable visual symbol. 

There are two model variants – differentiated by colour scheme and battery size: range of up to 340 km WLTP for the standard range (45kWh battery) and up to 427 km WLTP for the extended range (60kWh battery).    

The Extended price is $55,990 with Clean Car Rebate of $7,015 applies to both variants.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of another ground‐breaking BYD vehicle in New Zealand,” says Warren Willmot, BYD NZ Auto’s Manager.

“Following on from the launch of the BYD brand … mid last year with New Zealand’s most awarded EV, the ATTO 3, we are stepping it up a gear by presenting another innovative vehicle that features cutting‐edge electric vehicle technology, premium features, and a high level of standard equipment. We are thrilled to be able to offer another choice to consumers in a volume-driven market segment.” 

Like the BYD Atto 3, BYD Dolphin is also built on e‐Platform 3.0, benefiting from advanced Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology. This means that the battery is integrated within the body floor, creating a sandwich‐like structure that incorporates the Blade Battery and the tray. 

On an 80 kW DC charger, the Dophin can replenish the battery from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 29 minutes.   

Pre‐orders are open from June 5 June with deliveries from September 2023.