BYD has introduced the Dolphin G DM-i, its first car designed specifically for Europe, offering up to 65 miles (~105 km) of pure electric range and a total combined range of 646 miles (~1,040 km). The plug-in hybrid hatchback is now available to order in several European markets, with pricing starting at $21,900 (~AUD 31,586) in Germany including incentives. The Dolphin G DM-i aims to provide ‘an EV driving experience,’ according to BYD, with a focus on daily electric commuting and long-range flexibility.
BYD Dolphin G DM-i: Trims, Pricing, and Range
The Dolphin G DM-i is available in four trims: Active, Boost, Comfort, and a range-topping Sport Edition. The base Active trim uses a 7.42 kWh Blade Battery, delivering a WLTP combined pure-electric range of 24.8 miles (~40 km) and a total combined range of 633 miles (~1,019 km).
In Germany, the Dolphin G DM-i Active model is available to order starting at $21,900 (~AUD 31,586), which includes a $5,200 (~AUD 7,500) government incentive and a $6,300 (~AUD 9,086) ‘BYD E-Bonus’ discount. Without incentives, the standard Active model is priced from $33,400 (~AUD 48,172). In the UK, pricing starts at $32,100 (~AUD 46,297) for the Active trim, with the Boost, Comfort, and Sport trims priced at $36,200 (~AUD 52,210), $38,200 (~AUD 55,094), and $40,200 (~AUD 57,979) respectively.
Powertrain and Charging Capabilities
The Dolphin G DM-i is powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine and two electric motors: one for driving and one as a generator. All versions feature a permanent-magnet synchronous front-mounted electric motor producing 161 hp (120 kW) and 210 Nm of torque, enabling 0 to 62 mph acceleration in 8.3 seconds.
Boost, Comfort, and Sport Edition models are equipped with an 18.3 kWh Blade Battery, providing a pure-electric range of 65 miles (~105 km) and a combined range of 646 miles (~1,040 km). The Active trim features a 3.3 kW on-board charger, recharging the battery from 15% in under three hours. Higher trims offer a 6.6 kW on-board charger and 39 kW DC fast charging, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in just 26 minutes.
Interior Features and Technology
Inside, the Dolphin G DM-i Active comes with an 8.8-inch driver display and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Boost trim and above upgrade to a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, heated front seats and steering wheel, an auto-dimming rear mirror, a 15 kW wireless phone charger, rear air vents, ambient lighting, and an eight-speaker audio system.
The Comfort trim adds a widescreen head-up display, a panoramic roof with an electrically adjustable sunshade, exterior mirror puddle lights, premium upholstery, and a 360-degree camera system. Google integration is included in the infotainment system for Comfort and higher trims.
Safety and Driver Assistance
All Dolphin G DM-i models are equipped with front and rear parking sensors and a suite of driver assistance features. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Intelligent Cruise Control, Emergency Lane Keeping Assistant, Lane Departure Assist, Front and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Cross Traffic Brake, Blind Spot Detection, a Driver Monitoring System, and Door Opening Warning.
Dimensions and Market Position
The Dolphin G DM-i measures 4,160 mm (~164 inches) in length, 1,825 mm (~72 inches) in width, and 1,575 mm (~62 inches) in height, making it the smallest plug-in hybrid vehicle currently available in the UK. Compared to the all-electric Dolphin Surf, which starts at $15,000 (~AUD 21,634) including incentives and offers a WLTP range of 192 miles (~310 km), the Dolphin G DM-i provides a plug-in hybrid alternative with extended range flexibility.
Why this matters
The launch of the BYD Dolphin G DM-i marks a significant step for BYD as it targets the European market with a plug-in hybrid designed specifically for local preferences and regulations. With up to 65 miles (~105 km) of electric-only range, the Dolphin G DM-i addresses the needs of drivers seeking daily electric commuting with the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips.
Its competitive pricing and comprehensive feature set position it as a strong alternative to both traditional hybrids and fully electric vehicles in the B-segment.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in Europe and the UK now have access to a plug-in hybrid hatchback that offers substantial electric range for daily use and long combined range for extended journeys. The Dolphin G DM-i’s multiple trims and advanced features provide options for a range of budgets and preferences.
With first customer deliveries set to begin in September, those interested in a practical, efficient plug-in hybrid should consider placing orders soon, especially as incentives and discounts may vary by market.
Key Specs
- Starting Price (Germany, incl. incentives): $21,900 (~AUD 31,586)
- Starting Price (Germany, excl. incentives): $33,400 (~AUD 48,172)
- Starting Price (UK, Active trim): $32,100 (~AUD 46,297)
- Battery (Active trim): 7.42 kWh Blade Battery
- Battery (Boost/Comfort/Sport): 18.3 kWh Blade Battery
- Pure Electric Range (Boost/Comfort/Sport): 65 miles (~105 km)
- Combined Range: 646 miles (~1,040 km)
- Power Output: 161 hp (120 kW), 210 Nm
- 0-62 mph Acceleration: 8.3 seconds
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 4,160 mm x 1,825 mm x 1,575 mm (~164 x 72 x 62 inches)
- On-board Charger (Active): 3.3 kW
- On-board Charger (Boost/Comfort/Sport): 6.6 kW AC, 39 kW DC
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co
