Guide to BYD EVs

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Sophie McMillanAutomotive Correspondent
close shot of silver BYD car rear windscreen wiper
close shot of silver BYD car rear windscreen wiper

BYD stands for Build Your Dreams – a name that reflects the company’s mission to create innovative, sustainable transport solutions that are accessible to more people around the world. 

Founded in 1995, BYD has grown from a small rechargeable battery manufacturer into one of the front-runners in clean transportation.

The Chinese manufacturer not only produces electric and hybrid cars, but also buses, trucks and monorails, which you may have already spotted on the streets, or in large organisations such as airports.

BYD’s signature Blade Battery has passed extremely rigorous tests, making it one of the world’s safest EV batteries – adding a level of reassurance for their drivers and those considering a switch to an EV. 

BYD’s success and technological advancements are in part due to their commitment to vertical integration – designing and manufacturing their own batteries, electric motors, and control systems, giving the brand control over quality, performance, and innovation, while allowing it to push the boundaries of efficiency.

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BYD Dolphin

For those who want an agile and versatile hatchback suitable for city living but capable of longer road trips, the BYD Dolphin is a fantastic option. 

Despite its hatchback stature, the interior is comfortable for front and rear passengers, with a flat floor and supportive vegan leather seats, as well as numerous storage areas dotted throughout the cabin.

It also boasts a 345-litre boot, which can be expanded to 1,310 litres when rear seats are folded flat, making it suitable for everyday tasks, as well as the less expected.

BYD Dolphin Specifications

44.9 kWh

60.4 kWh

Type

Hatchback

Hatchback

Seats

5

5

Trims

Active, Boost

Comfort, Design

Powertrain

Electric

Electric

Power

93 - 174 bhp

201 bhp

0 - 62 mph

TBC

7 seconds

Range (WLTP comb.)

195 - 221 miles

265 miles

CO2 Emissions

0

0

Recharge (10 - 80%)

38 min (65kW charger)

38 min (65kW charger)

Boot Space

345L

345L

EuroNCAP Safety Rating

5 Star

5 Star

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.

 

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BYD Dolphin Surf

The BYD Dolphin Surf is a quirky, urban-focused supermini with some sporty touches, even smaller than their Dolphin - perfect for those who need to manoeuvre and park in tight city streets.

It has a playful and distinctive stance, with a single-arch profile that creates surprising cabin space.

The Dolphin Surf’s fast recharge rate makes it an easy choice for daily urban commutes, as well as on longer journeys when required.

For those wanting a smaller car but the convenience of an EV, you’ll also be glad to know the Dolphin Surf comes with NFC keyless entry and remote-control conditioning, allowing you to pre-cool or pre-heat your cabin before your journey. 

BYD Dolphin Surf Specifications

30 kWh

43.2 kWh

Type

Small Hatchback

Small Hatchback

Seats

4

4

Trims

Active

Boost, Comfort

Powertrain

Electric

Electric

Power

87 bhp

154 bhp

0 - 62 mph

11.1 - 12.1 seconds

9.1 seconds

Range (WLTP comb.)

137 - 200 miles

310 miles

CO2 Emissions

0

0

Recharge (10 - 80%)

30 min (65kW charger)

30 min (85kW charger)

Boot Space

308L

308L

EuroNCAP Safety Rating

5 Star

5 Star

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.

BYD_Seal_OR_AG_13_NEW-PLATE.jpg

BYD Seal

If you’re leaning towards an EV for your next car, but don’t want a large SUV, the BYD Seal may be the companion for you. 

The Seal is targeted at premium EV buyers who want a sporty, feature-rich saloon without the premium price tag. 

Perfect for commuters who need serious range, the Seal offers up to 354 miles WLTP. Those who also want a little thrill in their commute can enjoy 0-62 mph acceleration in 3.8 seconds, with their Excellence model.

BYD Seal Specifications

82.5kWh RWD

82.5kWh AWD

Type

Family suv

Family SUV

Seats

5

5

Trims

Design

Excellence

Powertrain

Electric

Electric

Power

308bhp

522bhp

0 - 62 mph

5.9 seconds

3.8 seconds

Range (WLTP comb.)

354 miles

323 miles

CO2 Emissions

0

0

Recharge (10 - 80%)

37 min (150kW charger)

37 min (150kW charger)

Boot Space

485L

485L

EuroNCAP Safety Rating

5 Star

5 Star

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.

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BYD Atto 3 Evo

The BYD Atto 3 is a popular family EV, with a practical cabin for passengers. Generous rear space, including a completely flat floor, provides excellent legroom and relaxing journeys for friends and family.

For those who are space-conscious, the car also includes a 490-litre boot, as well as a 101-litre front trunk, perfect for storing charging cables.

While being a practical car, the Atto 3 also has powerful electric motors and fast charging for drivers on the go, with DC fast chargers getting the battery from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes.

BYD Atto 3 Specifications

60.48 kWh

Type

SUV

Seats

5

Trims

Active, Comfort, Design

Powertrain

Electric

Power

260 bhp

0 - 62 mph

7.3 seconds

Range (WLTP comb.)

260 miles

CO2 Emissions

0

Recharge (10 - 80%)

44 min (150kW charger)

Boot Space

440L

EuroNCAP Safety Rating

5 Star

.

.

BYD_Sealion_4.5s_excellence__0120_NEW-PLATE.jpg

BYD Sealion 7 

If you’re on the hunt for a stylish alternative to the likes of a Tesla Model Y, you’re in luck – The BYD Sealion 7 is the SUV version of their Seal model, offering up a sleek, smart and roomier experience.

If you’re looking for a daily-use, premium-feeling car, the Sealion 7 could be your best bet, with its well-appointed cabin, supportive seats and advanced tech.

For those wanting the best of BYD’s technology, the Sealion treats them to a 15.6-inch rotatable infotainment screen, a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system, and a comprehensive suite of active safety and driver-assistance features.

BYD Sealion 7 Specifications

82.5kWh

91.3kWh

Type

Family suv

Family SUV

Seats

5

5

Trims

Comfort, Design AWD

Excellence AWD

Powertrain

Electric

Electric

Power

308-522bhp

522bhp

0 - 62 mph

4.5 - 6.7 seconds

4.5 seconds

Range (WLTP comb.)

283 - 300 miles

312 miles

CO2 Emissions

0

0

Recharge (10 - 80%)

32 min (150kW charger)

24 min (150kW charger)

Boot Space

520L

520L

EuroNCAP Safety Rating

5 Star

5 Star

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With hundreds of new and used BYD EVs in stock across our nationwide network of BYD dealerships, your next car is at Vertu.

Our knowledgeable colleagues in-branch can help you find the right EV for your needs, whether it's one from this list of BYD EVs or something completely different.

Vertu’s expert BYD EV MOT and services ensure you will continue to be well supported far beyond your purchase. 

Pop into your local Vertu BYD dealership and explore our selection of high-quality EVs in person, chat to our friendly and knowledgeable staff, or take a test drive.