Australia's cheapest electric vehicle receives positive initial feedback

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is set to introduce its first electric car priced under $40,000 in the Australian market. This marks a significant milestone for the growing EV market in Australia. To boost sales, BYD has showcased the new Dolphin at experience centers across the country.

I visited an experience center in Melbourne to get a firsthand look at the Dolphin and share my initial impressions. Upon entering the center, I noticed a Maldive purple Dolphin on display with its daytime-running lights illuminated. The car appeared larger in person than it did in photos, although it is only slightly longer than the MG4 we test-drove last week.

The showcased variant was the entry-level Dynamic, starting at $38,890 before on-road costs. As the most affordable new electric car currently available, it was interesting to see what features were included.

Getting into the car was easy, as is typical for most low hatchbacks. The interior felt spacious with ample headroom, especially with the moonroof offered in the Dynamic variant. The gear shifter being located in the center console created a tunnel between the driver and passenger seats, providing additional storage space.

The cupholders were conveniently placed and easily accessible, unlike some other electric hatchbacks that have them positioned lower to the ground. The steering wheel felt similar to the top-selling BYD Atto 3, with user-friendly controls and a screen behind it, reminiscent of its larger SUV counterpart.

Considering the price point, the overall quality of the car felt surprisingly premium. The materials used in the seats and the inclusion of the moonroof added to the pleasant cabin experience. In the rear, there was ample legroom on the flat floor, and the rear seats were comfortable.

The boot had generous space and featured a few deeper compartments, which are convenient for storage purposes. Additionally, the boot included a vehicle-to-load adapter, a home charger, and a tyre repair kit, making it practical for both home and on-the-go use.

Overall, the Dolphin exuded a premium feel and appeared well-crafted, much like the impressive BYD Atto 3 we reviewed last year. With the increasing demand for EVs, it is encouraging to see compelling and affordable options like the Dolphin entering the market. We are eagerly looking forward to test driving it in the coming months.

FutureCar Staff