BYD Dolphin First Impression - Could this be your first EV?
BYD Malaysia has unveiled the all-new BYD Dolphin, expanding its electric vehicle (EV) lineup after the success of the Atto 3. This EV, belonging to BYD's Ocean series, is built on the e-Platform 3.0, featuring the renowned blade batteries known for safety and impressive range.
The Dolphin's standout feature is its affordability. With prices starting at just RM99,900 for the base model and RM124,900 for the top-tier version, it outshines competitors in brand value, interior features, design, and quality.
Visually, it's comparable in size to a Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Corolla Yaris, with appealing taillights and color-matching wheels. Its front design might be considered understated by some, but overall, it's an attractive car.
Inside, the Dolphin offers a matching interior color, which can be a matter of taste. However, the 5-inch digital meter panel might pose visibility challenges for some.
Driving the Dolphin is the typical EV experience: quiet, responsive, and noise-free. To address safety concerns regarding silent EVs, it emits a chime, which some may find annoying.
A 12.8-inch swiveling screen dominates the interior, likely offering customizable settings similar to the Atto 3.
In terms of power and range, there are two variants. The Standard range model has a 44.9kWh battery, a single motor with 94hp, and a 340km WLTP range. Charging from 0-100% takes about 45 minutes with a max DC charging rate of 60kW.
The Extended range model features a 60.48kWh battery, a 150kW motor, 201hp, 427km WLTP range, and 0-100km/h in seven seconds. It demonstrated impressive range retention during the test drive.
Both models have minor issues, such as faint buzzing sounds from door panels in the Standard range model. The Extended Range model offers ventilated seats, ideal for Malaysia's climate.
Another key difference is the suspension: the Extended Range model has multi-link rear suspension for enhanced comfort and control, while the Standard model uses a classic torsion beam setup.
The BYD Dolphin is a significant step toward wider EV adoption in Malaysia. It's a viable choice for those looking to enter the EV world, and the Extended Range model offers added features and performance worth considering.
**BYD Dolphin Standard Range**
- - Motor: 70kW
- - Power: 94hp
- - Torque: 180Nm
- - Battery: 44.9kWh
- - Charging: 60kW Max DC Charging
- - Suspension: McPherson Strut (Front), Torsion Beam (Rear)
- - Price: RM99,900
**BYD Dolphin Extended Range**
- - Motor: 150kW Single Motor
- - Power: 201hp
- - Torque: 310Nm
- - Battery: 60.48kWh
- - Charging: 80kW Max DC Charging
- - Suspension: McPherson Strut (Front), Multi-link (Rear)
- - Price: RM124,900
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