Thabo Nkosi 
Looking for affordable electric cars in South Africa? The EV market saw a major shift in 2025, with prices dropping and more options available under R500,000 (approx. $27,000). Chinese automakers like BYD, Dayun, and GWM now offer budget-friendly models that rival traditional gas-powered vehicles in cost and practicality. Here’s a quick look at the top contenders:
- BYD Dolphin Surf: Starts at R339,900 (~$18,370), with a 232 km range and fast charging in ~30 minutes.
- Dayun S Five: Priced at R399,900 (~$21,600), offering a 330 km range ideal for city and suburban commutes.
- Dongfeng Box E1 330: Compact and stylish, designed for urban driving with modern charging options.
- BYD Dolphin (Standard): A premium option at R539,900 (~$28,700), with a 340 km range and larger battery.
- GWM Ora 03: Retro-inspired design starting at R686,950 (~$36,540), featuring a 310 km range and advanced features.
Key highlights:
- EVs cost as little as 20 cents per kilometer to run, compared to R1.20 for gasoline cars.
- Many models now include financing options for home solar and battery systems to mitigate power outages.
- Battery warranties range from 5 to 8 years, ensuring long-term reliability.
Quick Comparison:
| Model | Price (ZAR) | Price (USD) | Range (km) | Battery Size (kWh) | DC Fast Charging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf | R339,900 | ~$18,370 | 232 | 30.08 | Up to 30 kW |
| Dayun S Five | R399,900 | ~$21,600 | 330 | 31.7 | Yes |
| Dongfeng Box E1 330 | Not listed | Not listed | Not listed | Not listed | Yes |
| BYD Dolphin Standard | R539,900 | ~$28,700 | 340 | 60.4 | Yes |
| GWM Ora 03 | R686,950 | ~$36,540 | 310 | 48 | Up to 64 kW |
Switching to electric can save you money, reduce running costs, and offer a smoother driving experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets or planning longer trips, there’s an option for every budget.
Cheapest Electric Cars in South Africa 2025: Price and Range Comparison
I Drove the BYD Dolphin Surf and Found the CHEAPEST EV in SA
1. BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf (known internationally as the BYD Seagull or Atto 1) is the most budget-friendly electric vehicle in South Africa. Pricing starts at R339,900 (around $18,370) for the base Comfort trim, with the higher-spec Dynamic variant priced at R389,900 (approximately $21,080). As King Price Insurance aptly put it:
"The launch of the BYD Dolphin Surf marks a defining moment in making electric driving more affordable than ever".
Now, let’s take a closer look at its performance and powertrain.
Both trims are powered by a 55 kW motor, delivering 135 Nm of torque and reaching a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). The Comfort model goes from 0 to 62 mph (0–100 km/h) in 14.2 seconds, while the Dynamic variant takes slightly longer at 15.5 seconds. Battery capacity varies between the two: the Comfort trim is equipped with a 30.08 kWh Blade Battery, offering a WLTP range of 232 km (about 144 miles). The Dynamic trim steps it up with a 38.88 kWh battery, extending the range to 295 km (roughly 183 miles).
When it comes to charging, the Dolphin Surf supports AC charging up to 6.6 kW via its 7 kW wall box. For faster charging options, the Comfort trim allows DC fast charging up to 30 kW, while the Dynamic model supports DC charging up to 40 kW. Both trims can charge from 30% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes. Additionally, both models include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, letting you power small appliances straight from the car.
The Dolphin Surf is backed by a 3-year/62,000-mile vehicle warranty and an 8-year/124,000-mile battery warranty. Safety is a strong point, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, electronic stability control, and airbags (four in the Comfort trim and six in the Dynamic). Owners can also keep tabs on their battery levels and precondition the cabin using the BYD app.
2. Dayun S Five
The Dayun S Five, often called the S5, hit the South African market in July 2025 and has quickly become the second most affordable electric vehicle available. Starting at R399,900 (roughly $21,600), it’s a budget-friendly option for those looking to make the switch to electric driving. Let’s take a closer look at its specs and features.
This compact city car is powered by a 35 kW electric motor, delivering 105 Nm of torque and a top speed of 115 km/h (71 mph). Its 31.7 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery provides an impressive range of 330 km (about 205 miles) on a single charge, with energy consumption rated at 10.7 kWh per 100 km. These figures make the S Five an ideal choice for city driving and short-distance travel.
Charging is straightforward: the S Five supports AC charging using standard 220V outlets, taking about four hours to go from 0% to 100%. For quicker turnarounds, DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in under an hour. The car is available in two trims: the S5 Standard, priced at R399,900, and the S5 VIP, which comes in at R449,900.
Safety is a priority with features like dual airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control, hill start assist, and a rearview camera. The S Five also comes with a 5-year/74,500-mile battery warranty for added peace of mind. Inside, the cabin boasts a minimalist design with leather accents, a 7-inch LCD infotainment screen, and an 8-inch central control display, offering both style and functionality.
3. Dongfeng Box E1 330
The Dongfeng Box E1 330 secures its spot as the third most affordable EV in South Africa, offering a practical and stylish choice for city life. This compact hatchback, similar in size to the Volkswagen Polo, is perfectly suited for weaving through crowded streets and fitting into tight parking spaces. Its rounded design, almond-shaped headlights, and eye-catching pastel color options – like Aurora Purple paired with a white roof and wing mirrors – add a touch of flair to its functionality. The compact build ensures easy navigation in busy traffic while maintaining a focus on affordability.
The Box E1 330 is equipped with modern charging options, featuring both Type 2 AC and CCS2 DC ports. It also supports DC fast charging, allowing the battery to reach 80% in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for urban commuters.
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4. BYD Dolphin (Standard Model)
The BYD Dolphin (Standard Model) is among the most affordable electric vehicles available in South Africa, priced at R539,900 (around $28,700). Set to launch in early 2024, it’s built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and offers a higher-end experience compared to the entry-level Dolphin Surf. It’s designed for drivers who want more range and added features.
This version comes with a 60.4 kWh battery, providing a range of 340 km (211 miles) on a single charge. Its electric motor generates 70 kW of power and 180 N.m of torque (approximately 133 lb-ft), making it a solid choice for both city commutes and highway trips.
The Dolphin also offers flexibility with its charging options, supporting both AC and DC charging. Whether you prefer the convenience of charging overnight at home or need a quick boost at a public station, this EV has you covered.
5. GWM Ora 03
The GWM Ora 03 brings a retro-inspired look to South Africa’s affordable EV lineup. With four trim levels to choose from, it offers options for a variety of needs. The entry-level 300 Super Luxury starts at R686,950 (about $36,540), while the high-end 400 GT Ultra Luxury is priced at R835,950 (roughly $44,465). While its price tag is on the higher side compared to other models, the Ora 03 makes up for it with an extended range and premium features.
Now, let’s talk performance. All Ora 03 models are powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering 126 kW of power and 250 N·m of torque (around 184 lb-ft). This setup allows the car to go from 0 to 62 mph in just 8.2 seconds, making it quick enough for city commutes and highway drives alike.
The base 300 Super Luxury trim comes with a 48 kWh battery, offering a WLTP-rated range of 310 km (193 miles) per charge. For those planning longer drives, the 400-series trims extend the range to 420 km (261 miles) and improve efficiency with energy consumption rated at 16.5 kWh/100 km.
Charging is straightforward and convenient. The Ora 03 features an 11 kW AC onboard charger that can fully recharge the battery in about 5.5 hours – perfect for overnight charging. If speed is a priority, its DC fast-charging capability (up to 64 kW) can take the battery from 20% to 80% in just 46 minutes.
BB Group GWM highlights the Ora 03’s value, stating:
"ORA will offer the best Range-Per-Rand of any Electric Vehicle in South Africa. Start saying yes to trips of 400km+ in real-world conditions".
Safety is another strong point for the Ora 03, which boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. It also includes advanced features like a 360° panoramic camera and multiple driving modes, further enhancing its appeal.
Price and Specifications Comparison
Prices for five affordable electric vehicles (EVs) range between R339,900 ($18,373) and R686,950 ($37,135). Each model brings something different to the table, whether it’s battery size, driving range, or performance. Here’s a breakdown of the key features and specifications for these models:
| Model Name | Starting Price (ZAR) | Starting Price (USD) | Battery Capacity | Claimed Range | Motor Output | DC Fast Charging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf (Comfort) | R339,900 | ~$18,373 | 30 kWh | 232 km (144 mi) | 55 kW | Up to 30 kW |
| BYD Dolphin Surf (Dynamic) | R389,900 | ~$21,075 | 38.8 kWh | 295 km (183 mi) | 55 kW | Up to 40 kW |
| Dayun S5 | R399,900 | ~$21,616 | 31.7 kWh | 330 km (205 mi) | 35 kW / 105 N·m | Not specified |
| BYD Dolphin (Standard) | R539,900 | ~$29,184 | 60.4 kWh | 340 km (211 mi) | 70 kW / 180 N·m | Not specified |
| GWM Ora 03 (300 Super Luxury) | R686,950 | ~$37,135 | 48 kWh | 310 km (193 mi) | 126 kW / 250 N·m | Up to 64 kW |
The Dayun S5 stands out with its 330 km (205 miles) range, powered by a 31.7 kWh battery, while the BYD Dolphin (Standard) boasts the largest battery at 60.4 kWh, offering a slightly higher range of 340 km (211 miles). For those seeking performance, the GWM Ora 03 leads the pack with a motor output of 126 kW and 250 N·m (approximately 184 lb-ft) of torque.
Charging capabilities vary as well. The BYD Dolphin Surf Dynamic includes a 7 kW home charger and supports DC fast charging up to 40 kW, allowing it to charge from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, the GWM Ora 03 supports faster DC charging, handling up to 64 kW for quicker top-ups.
Conclusion
The electric vehicle market in South Africa saw a major shift in 2025, with five EV models now priced under $37,135 (R686,950). These budget-friendly options, primarily from Chinese manufacturers, have made electric driving more attainable for urban and suburban commuters. The BYD Dolphin Surf, for instance, starts at just $18,373 (R339,900), offering an affordable entry point into the EV world.
When it comes to costs, EVs offer a clear advantage – running at about 20¢ per kilometer compared to R1.20 per kilometer for petrol vehicles. For those driving 1,000 kilometers per month, the fuel savings add up quickly. These savings highlight the importance of choosing an EV with the right range and charging capabilities for your lifestyle.
Selecting the right EV starts with matching its range to your daily commute. For instance, the Dayun S5, with its 205-mile (330 km) range, is ideal for longer suburban drives. On the other hand, the Dolphin Surf’s 144-mile (232 km) range is perfect for city driving. Most models can charge using a standard wall socket, though investing in a dedicated charger can significantly speed up the process.
Charging infrastructure is another key factor to consider. Some manufacturers, like GWM, offer financing options that include home inverter and battery installations. This is particularly helpful in addressing load shedding challenges, ensuring a smoother transition to electric driving. Additionally, it’s wise to review battery warranty coverage to protect your investment over the long term.
For more details, visit EV24.africa. The platform provides comprehensive listings, financing options, and tools to compare specifications. You can also arrange test drives and explore dealer inventories across all 54 African countries, making your shift to electric driving both convenient and informed.
FAQs
What should I consider when buying an affordable electric car in South Africa?
When looking for an affordable electric car in South Africa, it’s essential to weigh the purchase price and total ownership costs. Prices for budget-friendly models typically fall between R320,000 and R460,000 (around $16,800 to $24,900). On top of that, government incentives – such as tax breaks and reduced import duties – can make these vehicles even more accessible. Plus, electricity tends to cost less than gasoline, making daily operation more economical.
Pay close attention to the driving range to ensure it fits your lifestyle. Many affordable electric cars offer ranges between 185 and 265 miles (300–425 km) per charge. While these ranges are ideal for city commutes, they may require some planning for longer journeys. Also, check the car’s charging compatibility. Fast-charging options and access to public charging stations – especially in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg – can significantly enhance convenience.
Finally, think about practicality and support. Compact hatchbacks are perfect for navigating city streets, while small SUVs offer extra room for families. Look for vehicles with dependable warranties, low-maintenance battery systems, and accessible service networks to make ownership hassle-free. By balancing cost, range, and practicality, you can find an electric car that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
How do the running costs of electric cars compare to gas-powered vehicles in South Africa?
Electric cars are much more affordable to run than gas-powered vehicles in South Africa. Charging an EV at home costs roughly $0.03 per kilometer, which is far less than the cost of gasoline. Plus, gas-powered cars come with extra expenses like oil changes, spark plug replacements, and more frequent brake servicing.
On top of the fuel savings, EVs have fewer mechanical components, which means lower maintenance costs over the long term. For those keeping an eye on their budget, the combined savings on fuel and maintenance make electric vehicles a practical and cost-effective option for everyday driving.
What charging options are available for electric cars in South Africa?
Electric car owners in South Africa have two primary options for keeping their vehicles powered: home charging and public fast-charging. Many of the affordable EV models expected in 2025, such as the BYD Dolphin Surf, Dayun S5, GWM Ora 03, and Volvo EX30, are compatible with standard home outlets or dedicated wall boxes, making overnight charging at home a practical choice. These models also support fast charging at public stations, allowing the battery to reach up to 80% in roughly an hour.
Public fast-charging networks are expanding rapidly in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, providing convenient access to DC fast chargers. Paired with home charging options, this growing infrastructure offers EV owners the flexibility and reliability they need for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
