BYD Dolphin G DM-i: A Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain Fits Under the Hood of a City Car
BYD accelerates its expansion strategy in Europe with the Dolphin G DM-i, a new city car in the B segment designed specifically for the European market. A notable feature is that it introduces a previously unseen offering in this category: a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
BYD accelerates its expansion strategy in Europe with the Dolphin G DM-i, a new city car in the B segment designed specifically for the European market. A notable feature is that it introduces a previously unseen offering in this category: a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Between style, onboard technology, range, and pricing, this model aims to shake up established references.
A City Car with a Discreet Yet Modern Style
With the Dolphin G DM-i, BYD opts for a rather understated aesthetic approach, avoiding exuberance. Measuring 4.16 m in length, 1.82 m in width, and 1.57 m in height, it boasts proportions similar to those of a Renault Clio, while offering a slightly elevated silhouette that gives it an almost MPV-like appearance.
To attract despite a certain stylistic restraint, the manufacturer relies on contemporary elements: intricate lighting signature, smooth and clean surfaces, flush door handles, and a rear light strip. The overall design remains coherent and modern, even if it appears less expressive than recent European city cars like the Renault 5, Renault 4, Clio, or the Peugeot 208, which lean more towards emotional design.
An Unprecedented Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain in the Segment
The true uniqueness of this Dolphin G DM-i lies under the hood. It becomes one of the first city cars on the market to offer plug-in hybrid technology, where the competition is still largely limited to simple hybrids or electric vehicles.
BYD's Super DM-i system relies on two battery levels, offered depending on the versions: 7.4 kWh or 18.3 kWh. In 100% electric mode, the announced range varies from 40 to 105 km, sufficient to cover most daily trips without engaging the internal combustion engine. When the battery is low, a 1.5-liter gasoline engine takes over to generate electricity and power the electric motor, while also being able to drive the wheels directly as needed.
This architecture allows for a total range of up to 1,050 km. The combined power stands at 212 hp, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.2 seconds, a decent figure but not particularly impressive given the power level. The weight, which rises to 1,555 kg in the large battery configuration, partly explains this compromise. This version is expected to represent the main volume of sales.
A Level of Equipment Worthy of a Higher Segment
Inside, BYD clearly focuses on generous technological equipment. The Dolphin G DM-i includes a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, as well as a head-up display, a feature still rare in this category.
The list of features is also particularly comprehensive for a city car: heated seats, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof. These elements are generally reserved for vehicles in higher segments, enhancing the model's premium feel.
On the pricing side, BYD positions its Dolphin G DM-i within an aggressive range for a plug-in hybrid in the B segment. The entry-level model is priced at €23,990 with the smaller battery, while the version equipped with the larger battery is set at €26,990. This positioning could allow it to stand out in a segment that is still underutilized for this type of powertrain.
