The new BYD Dolphin G plug-in hybrid supermini will offer 65 miles of electric-only running and a total range of up to 646 miles.
Due on sale shortly at less than £20,000, the Dolphin G will rivals the likes of the Renault Clio, Volkswagen Polo and Toyota Yaris – but while most B-segment cars feature mild- or full-hybrid powertrains, the Dolphin G is a full PHEV.
It’s powered by BYD’s Super Hybrid system, as used by the recently launched Atto 2 DM-i crossover, featuring a 128bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors: a 161bhp drive unit and a generator.
The system is described as “EV-led”, because the motors turn the wheels in most situations, and it can power from 0-62mph in 8.3sec.
The Dolphin G will be offered with a choice of two batteries. Active cars feature a 7.2kWh pack giving 25 miles of electric-only range, while Boost, Comfort and Sport cars feature an 18.3kWh pack for a range of 65 miles.
The smaller battery can be charged at 3.3kW on an AC charger, while the larger battery can take 6.6kW AC and 39kW DC charging.
The variants with the larger battery are expected to be priced between £23,000 and £25,000.
Notably, the system also has a vehicle-to-load outlet, meaning the car’s battery can power external devices.
The Dolphin G sits in the heart of the supermini segment, measuring 4160mm long, 1825mm wide and 1575mm high, with a wheelbase of 2610mm. That makes it 170mm shorter than the Atto 2 and the market’s smallest PHEV.
It weighs between 1440kg and 1555kg, depending on battery size, and sits on 16in or 18in wheels. Boot capacity stands at a class-leading 425 litres.
An active air intake on the front bumper adjusts the airflow to the engine to optimise cooling and range, while there’s also a small rear spoiler. Cars in Sport trim get extra styling elements.
Inside, Active models feature a 10.1in touchscreen running a Google-based infotainment system, along with an 8.8in digital instrument display. Higher-end models feature a 12.8in touchscreen, plus features such as a panoramic roof, a head-up display and a 360deg camera.
First customer deliveries are due in the autumn.
