BYD Dolphin Surges Past 1 Million Sales, Expanding Global Reach

The BYD Dolphin has become the latest electric vehicle to surpass one million global sales, marking a significant milestone for the Chinese automaker. This achievement positions the Dolphin as BYD’s third electric model to reach this landmark figure, joining the ranks of only a handful of other vehicles that have achieved similar success, including models from Wuling and Tesla.

The Dolphin, a subcompact EV launched in China in 2021, is part of BYD’s Ocean series, which has garnered attention for its affordability. The base model starts at 99,800 yuan (approximately $14,100), delivering 94 horsepower with a 45-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery, and a quoted range of 261 miles (or 420 kilometers) according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). For those seeking enhanced performance, the higher variant retails at 129,800 yuan (around $18,400) featuring 201 horsepower and an extended range of 323 miles (approximately 520 kilometers).

The Dolphin’s appeal extends beyond China, where it has become a common sight. It is also available in various Asian markets as well as key European countries, although only the top variant is offered in Europe. In Germany, for instance, the Dolphin starts at €34,640 (around $40,400) before incentives, with a WLTP range of 265 miles (approximately 427 kilometers).

As BYD celebrates this sales milestone, it faces intensified competition within the Chinese market, exacerbated by ongoing price wars and regulatory scrutiny. To counter these challenges, the company is proactively expanding its international presence, particularly in Europe. According to a report by Reuters, BYD aims to double its footprint on the continent by the end of 2026, a move that includes plans for a second production facility in Turkey. This follows the construction of a significant factory in Hungary, which is projected to have a maximum capacity of 300,000 vehicles annually, all designated for the European market.

The Dolphin is not BYD’s only model to cross the one million sales threshold. The automaker’s Atto 3, also known as the Yuan Plus in China, launched in 2022, and the Seagull (marketed as the Dolphin Surf in Europe), introduced in 2023, have also achieved this notable feat.

In the broader landscape of electric vehicles, the Dolphin joins an elite club that includes models from other manufacturers. The SAIC-owned Wuling Motors has reported sales of its Mini EV exceeding 1.8 million units, while Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y have each surpassed one million units sold. The Model 3 was particularly noteworthy as it became the world’s first electric vehicle to reach one million sales in June 2021.

As BYD continues to innovate and expand, its commitment to producing affordable and efficient electric vehicles positions it strongly in the global automotive market. The Dolphin’s success is not only a testament to BYD’s strategy but also reflects the growing acceptance and demand for electric vehicles worldwide.