BYD Enters European Market with Budget-Friendly ‘Dolphin Surf’ Electric Car
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has launched its tenth model in Europe, the ‘Dolphin Surf,’ in a move that is set to intensify pressure on European automakers to provide more affordable electric vehicles. The new model was introduced in Berlin and will be available at three different price points: 22,990 euros for a version with a 322-kilometer range, 23,990 euros for a 400-kilometer range, and 24,990 euros for a 507-kilometer range. Until June 30, temporary discounts will be available, reducing the prices to between 19,990 and 24,990 euros.
The launch of the ‘Dolphin Surf’ addresses one of the major barriers to the wider adoption of electric vehicles in Europe: cost. Currently, only a few models like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor’s T03 are available for under 20,000 euros. However, several new models priced under 25,000 euros are expected to hit the market this year, including the Volkswagen ID.2, Renault R5, Fiat Grand Panda, and Hyundai Inster.
Maria Grazia Davino, Regional Managing Director for markets including Germany, emphasized the potential of the compact segment for electrification in Europe, stating, “The compact segment is the next frontier for electrification in Europe. We think this market has huge potential.” The introduction of the ‘Dolphin Surf’ and other upcoming models is expected to drive the electrification of the compact car segment in Europe, challenging local automakers to respond with their own affordable electric offerings.
