New R340K Electric Car with Load-Shedding Backup Launches in South Africa
Chinese automaker BYD has officially launched the Dolphin Surf in South Africa, introducing the country’s most affordable electric vehicle (EV) to date. With pricing starting at R339,900, the compact hatchback promises to bring electric mobility within reach of more local drivers.
Affordable Entry into EV Ownership
Two trim levels are available:
- Dolphin Surf Comfort – from R339,900
- Dolphin Surf Dynamic – from R389,900
This makes the Comfort version the cheapest EV on the local market, undercutting the Dayun S5 Standard (R399,900). BYD says the launch represents a turning point for South Africa’s EV adoption, proving that electric cars can be both practical and aspirational.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Dolphin Surf Comfort | Dolphin Surf Dynamic |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 30kWh | 38.8kWh |
| Range (WLTP combined) | 232km | 295km |
| Motor power | 55kW (135Nm torque) | 55kW (135Nm torque) |
| Top speed | 130km/h | 130km/h |
| 0–100km/h acceleration | 14.2 seconds | 15.5 seconds |
| Max DC charging rate | 30kW | 40kW (30–80% in 30 min) |
| Load-shedding backup | ~30 hours of power | ~39 hours of power |
| Boot space | 230L (930L seats down) | 230L (930L seats down) |
| Starting price | R339,900 | R389,900 |
Load-Shedding Backup Power
One of the standout features is Vehicle-to-Load (VtoL) functionality, allowing the car to supply power to external devices effectively turning it into a mobile backup generator.
Each vehicle also comes with a 7kW Home Charger Wall Box, a 3-7 Charger, and a VtoL socket as standard.
Inside, the Dolphin Surf offers a modern “connected cabin” experience with a 10.1-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and voice control activated with the phrase “Hi, BYD.”
The cabin also includes a 15W wireless charging pad, built-in karaoke, 20 smart storage solutions, and a flexible boot capacity of 230L expandable to 930L. NFC key access and app-based control add further convenience.
Warranty and Support
Both models are covered by a 3-year/60,000km service plan, a 3-year/100,000km vehicle warranty, and an 8-year/200,000km battery warranty.
BYD South Africa’s brand and marketing manager, Ming Xing, described the Dolphin Surf launch as a pivotal moment for the local EV market, highlighting its affordability, range, and advanced features as reasons it could succeed with everyday drivers.
With its sharp pricing, backup power capability, and stylish yet practical design, the BYD Dolphin Surf is set to make electric cars more accessible to South Africans than ever before.
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