BYD Expands European Presence with Affordable Dolphin Surf EV
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has launched its 10th model in Europe, the Dolphin Surf, in Berlin, Germany. The new EV will be available at three price points, starting from 22,990 euros ($26,100) for a version with a 322-kilometre (200-mile) range, up to 24,990 euros for a model with a 507-kilometre range. Until the end of June, buyers can purchase the vehicle at a discounted price ranging from 19,990 to 24,990 euros, according to BYD sales chief Patrick Schulz.
The introduction of the Dolphin Surf increases pressure on European automakers to produce more affordable electric vehicles, as cost remains a significant barrier to wider EV adoption. Currently, few models are available in Europe for under 20,000 euros, although several new models priced below 25,000 euros are set to be released this year, including the Volkswagen ID.2, Renault R5, Fiat Grand Panda, and Hyundai Inster.
“The compact segment is the next frontier for electrification in Europe,” said Maria Grazia Davino, BYD’s regional managing director for markets including Germany. “We believe this market has huge potential.” The vehicle’s Chinese counterpart, the Seagull, has contributed significantly to BYD’s success in China, ranking second only to Tesla’s Model Y in total sales in 2024 with over 442,000 registrations. Globally, sales of the model have increased by 45% this year to 170,000 units.
BYD, which surpassed Tesla last year to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer, has been revamping its European operations. The company is expanding its dealer network, offering more hybrid models, and hiring managers with local experience to improve sales. The efforts appear to be yielding results, with German sales reaching 2,791 in the first four months of the year, approaching the total of 2,891 vehicles sold in all of 2024. Across Europe, BYD’s sales quadrupled in the first quarter to 37,201 cars, contrasting with Tesla’s 37.2% sales decline during the same period.
BYD plans to enter 12 new European markets this year, with sales locations expected to expand to over 1,000. The success of the Dolphin Surf and BYD’s broader strategy in Europe will be closely watched by industry observers as the continent’s EV market continues to evolve.
