BYD Dolphin Surf EV Launched in Europe at €22,990: Could It Come to India Next?

New Delhi | May 22, 2025 — Chinese EV giant BYD (Build Your Dreams) has launched its Dolphin Surf electric hatchback in Europe, further intensifying the race for affordable, compact EVs on the continent. The new model was unveiled in Berlin on May 21, and is BYD’s 10th model in the European market, debuting at a base price of €22,990 (approx. ₹22.3 lakh). For a limited time, however, BYD is offering a special launch price of €19,990 in Germany.

Positioned as a premium, export-focused version of the Chinese-market BYD Seagull, the Dolphin Surf could serve as a strong contender in the budget EV segment not only in Europe but also in price-sensitive markets like India — though BYD has yet to confirm its India entry.

BYD Dolphin Surf: Key Specs and Features

• Variants: 3 trims

• Range: Up to 507 km (WLTP, top variant)

• Power Output:

  • Base/Mid trims: 87 bhp

  • Top trim: 156 bhp

• Battery Packs:

  • Base: 30.1 kWh

  • Mid/Top: 43.2 kWh

• Fast Charging:

  • Base: 65 kW DC

  • Others: 85 kW DC

  • 10-80% in 30 minutes

The Dolphin Surf is 8 inches longer than the Seagull and features a more powerful drivetrain, enhanced tech, and increased passenger comfort. On the inside, it boasts a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, OTA updates, and voice command support.

Other notable features include:

• V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) tech

• NFC-enabled keyless entry

• Electric seat adjustment

• Split-folding rear seats

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Europe’s Affordable EV Race: China vs. Legacy Automakers

The Dolphin Surf enters a European market under pressure from import tariffs on Chinese EVs. Currently manufactured in China, it will face 27% EU import duty — part of broader tariffs that can go up to 45.3% on Chinese electric vehicles.

Despite the challenges, BYD is actively expanding its European footprint, with new manufacturing facilities under development in Turkey and Hungary to localize production and sidestep these tariffs.

BYD’s aggressive pricing strategy with feature-rich vehicles is putting pressure on European automakers like Volkswagen, Renault, and Stellantis, all of whom are set to release sub-€25,000 electric models in 2025. These include the Renault R5 EV, Twingo E-Tech, and VW ID.2.

Will the BYD Dolphin Surf Launch in India?

BYD has already introduced models like the Atto 3 and e6 in India, and the Dolphin Surf would slot in as a premium budget offering. With Indian consumers becoming increasingly receptive to compact EVs with long range and robust tech, the Dolphin Surf could fill a crucial market gap between low-cost urban EVs and premium crossovers.

Earlier reports had suggested that BYD Seagull could be the model for India, but given the Surf’s better tech and more practical dimensions, it now appears to be a more viable choice for Indian launch — especially if BYD moves toward local assembly or semi-knocked down (SKD) kits to keep prices in check.

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Ganpat Singh Chouhan

My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.

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