BYD has revealed more details about its ground-breaking new compact car, the BYD Dolphin G DM-i, which is primed to become the first plug-in hybrid to enter into the small car class.
The model represents a significant milestone for the Chinese marque as its first model to be developed specifically for audiences in Europe, where it will reach dealerships before its native market.
The mark the occasion, BYD is introducing its DM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain to the category, making the Dolphin G the first model in the volume small car class to offer a plug-in battery alongside a conventional engine.
It’s technology that has already proven popular in BYD’s larger models, namely the Seal U, while it has also recently launched the PHEV versions of its Atto 2 and Sealion 5 SUVs.
Aiming to lure buyers from the likes of the Vauxhall Corsa, Renault Clio and MG 3 Hybrid+, the Dolphin G combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with the choice of either an entry-level 7.42kWh battery – which returns up to 25-miles of electric range - or 18.3kWh battery for up 65-miles of zero emission driving.
BYD is claiming up to 646-miles of total range, that being the total capacity of the battery and the engine, with a weighted fuel consumption of 201.7mpg.
Beyond the clear PHEV selling point, the Dolphin G is set to live up to BYD’s reputation for excellent value with a kit list that includes a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with intelligent voice control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 360-degree all-round visibility with parking sensors for all trims, while the upper end Sport trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels and a two-tone cabin treatment.
Prices are yet to be announced but the Dolphin G stands to become at least one of the cheapest PHEVs on the market at a time when the powertrain option has surged in popularity in recent months.
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- BYD
- New Cars