BYD has unveiled the new Dolphin G DM-i — a compact plug-in hybrid for the European market with a claimed total range of over 1000 km. But what's more important is that this is the first BYD car that was initially created specifically for Europe, rather than being adapted from a Chinese model.
The Dolphin G DM-i enters one of Europe's most popular segments — the B-class supermini, dominated by the Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, and Volkswagen Polo. The car is 4.16 meters long and is built around BYD's proprietary Super DM-i hybrid system. It combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a Blade Battery.
BYD's main focus is not maximum power, but versatility. The company promises "EV sensations" in the city with the ability to drive on electric power and, at the same time, the absence of a typical electric vehicle problem — dependence on charging infrastructure. This is why BYD emphasizes a combined range of over 1000 km.
It is noteworthy that the Dolphin G actually demonstrates a shift in the strategy of Chinese brands in Europe. Previously, manufacturers simply exported Chinese models, but now BYD openly admits: the European market requires different cars — more compact, lighter, and better adapted to narrow streets and local tastes. Company Vice President Stella Li explicitly stated that future compact BYD models will be designed in Europe and for Europe.
This is especially important against the backdrop of cooling demand for expensive electric vehicles in the EU. While many manufacturers are trying to promote full EVs, BYD is betting on plug-in hybrids as a "transitional" technology for the mass consumer.
And here, the Dolphin G could prove to be an extremely dangerous player. If BYD truly launches the model at a price of around £23,000 (2.2 million rubles), as British media expect, European brands will for the first time face a Chinese PHEV that competes not only on technology but also directly on price with gasoline superminis.