Singapore's Cheapest Electric Dream Car: We Review the BYD Dolphin

The electric vehicle (EV) market in Singapore is rapidly expanding, and several manufacturers have introduced their models in the country. BYD, a Chinese automaker, has entered the Singaporean market with its affordable EV, the Dolphin. With a competitive pricing strategy, the Dolphin has managed to attract potential buyers looking for an eco-friendly mode of transportation. But can this affordable EV live up to the expectations of the customers?

The BYD Dolphin made its global debut in 2021 and is the newer compact electric hatchback that offers an attractive design, considerable range, and a reasonable price tag. The compact EV serves the entry-level segment of the Singaporean market, looking to own a clean-energy vehicle without straining their wallets.

What is the BYD Dolphin like?

The exterior of the BYD Dolphin boasts an impressive appearance for an entry-level vehicle. The front showcases its signature BYD's 'Dragon's Face' design, incorporating hexagonal headlights that add to the overall uniqueness of the vehicle. At the rear, we have sleek, narrow LED taillights that wrap around to the sides. The car rides on 17-inch wheels and comes in a range of tasteful colours.

Inside, the Dolphin has a well-appointed cabin with a minimalist approach to interior layout. It includes a range of convenience features such as a sizeable 8-inch infotainment system, rear air-conditioning vents and built-in navigation. Other welcome features include remote start function via the phone app and 150kW quick-charging support. All these combine to provide an astonishing experience for passengers within its segment.

However, with affordability comes several compromises and omissions, such as a rather bland and simpler dashboard layout that doesn't feel as luxurious or well-appointed as pricier models. Storage compartments and seat comfort levels also appear somewhat average in comparison, perhaps implying why the model might score otherwise from Singaporean standards. Nevertheless, taking into consideration that the goal is a very budget-competitive model, one does realize they won't feel too compromised with compromises.

Things that the BYD Dolphin sacrificed for its price.

Given the segment it occupies, the BYD Dolphin can't but resist when it comes to overall efficiency. No doubt owners benefit from affordability. However, as part of a significant cost-cutting measure, soundproofing is directly affected, leading to less-than-acceptable muffling of engine and exterior sounds, a crucial factor while city driving which tends to enhance driver satisfaction.

Moreover, the safety scores received from expert crash testers may also get compromised with time. Although Singapore might not appear too interested in safety ratings as one finds and sees on overseas models due to unique traffic flow differences, owners are certain to expect their vehicles' capability to withstand unexpected bumps. This further serves the need for evaluation while factoring costs.

Should you buy the BYD Dolphin?

The BYD Dolphin may be one of the most affordable EV options on the Singaporean market. It arrives when customers find themselves a pressing requirement in going cleaner, minimizing environmental damage in every way they can. As owners switch to eco-friendly means, their expectations have grown and with this a consideration of needs beyond financial aspects. There might be other choices to pick from, but let there be no doubts on byd. The technology enables speed; however the value in how drivers interact and the simplicity inherent in vehicles that get their owners travelling, must thrive. Each choice certainly builds up to an enjoyable journey through comfort.