The BYD Dolphin Mini finally had its official price revealed on Wednesday: R$115,800. The expectation was that the Chinese compact would become the country’s most affordable 100% electric car, but the reality is different.
BYD has invested heavily in promoting the electric compact, making prime-time television commercials and hiring Luciano Huck as its poster boy. The presenter was even responsible for announcing the prices of the model.
The manufacturer also announced the conditions for those who pre-ordered the model without knowing the official figures. In this case, the model goes for R$ 105,800, however, it is necessary to pay a down payment of R$ 10,000. These customers will receive a Wallbox charger, which costs an average of R$ 7,000. It’s worth noting that until the end of the day, customers will be able to pre-order with the special conditions. The Wallbox will also be available to those who buy the Dolphin Mini outside the pre-sale offer, for a total of R$ 122,800
According to the manufacturer, 6,500 cars had already been reserved by 11 a.m. on Sunday.
What does the BYD Dolphin Mini look like?
BYD’s most affordable car measures 3.78 m in length, 1.71 m in width, 1.58 m in height and 2.5 m in wheelbase. Slightly larger than its main rivals in the segment. The trunk holds 230 liters. The tires are 175/55 and the alloy wheels are 16 inches.
Equipped with a front engine of 75 hp and 13.76 kgfm, the Dolphin Mini accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 14.9 seconds, with a top speed limited to 130 km/h. The Blade-type batteries are 38 kWh and guarantee a range of 280 km, as measured by Inmetro’s PBEV standard.
Interiorly, the new model has a pattern similar to that of the Dolphin and the Yuan Plus. The multimedia system’s screen is 10.1 inches and can be displayed horizontally and vertically, with connection to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as voice commands and three years of free internet.
In the rear, space is only for two occupants. Five-passenger versions are expected in the coming months, but have not been confirmed by the manufacturer.
BYD appeals for economy
BYD has reinforced the economy that electric cars can represent compared to cars powered by combustion engines. According to the brand, in fuel alone, running an average of 20,000 km/year, electric cars represent savings of R$ 6,000. In addition, maintenance is much more affordable, costing around R$ 650 per year.
BYD also took advantage of the event to announce its new partnerships. In collaboration with Raízen, the first three thousand units of the Dolphin Mini will be entitled to free recharges at Shell Recharge stations by the end of the year. Other owners of BYD cars will also receive additional discounts at the network’s chargers.
In partnership with Porto Seguro, the price of insurance for the BYD Dolphin Mini will be fixed at R$ 2. 640.640, independent of profile and other variables.
According to the brand, the units already present in Brazil will be sufficient to meet all the pre-sale demand for the Dolphin Mini, and that the cars will be delivered to customers in the coming days.
It is worth noting that the BYD factory in Brazil has already had its foundation stone installed and is due to start operating in 2025.
