Thabo Nkosi 
Electric cars in South Africa are becoming more affordable, with prices starting at just R339,900 (around $18,800 USD). This shift is driven by Chinese automakers like BYD, Dayun, Dongfeng, and GWM, who are introducing budget-friendly models tailored for urban driving. Here’s a quick look at the five cheapest options available:
- BYD Dolphin Surf: Starts at R339,900 ($18,800). Compact, city-friendly, with a range of up to 183 miles (295 km).
- Dayun S5: Priced from R399,900 ($22,000). Offers a range of 205 miles (330 km) and low running costs.
- Dongfeng Box E1 330: Costs R459,000 ($25,200). Balanced features with a range of 205 miles (330 km).
- BYD Dolphin: Starting at R539,900 ($29,700). Longer range and better performance than entry-level models.
- GWM Ora 03: At R686,950 ($37,800), it’s the priciest but delivers 169 hp and premium features.
These models cater to budget-conscious drivers looking for practical EV solutions. Below is a comparison to help you decide.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Starting Price | Battery Size | Range (miles) | Motor Power | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf | R339,900 ($18,800) | 30 kWh | 144–183 | 55 kW (74 hp) | 81 mph |
| Dayun S5 | R399,900 ($22,000) | 31.7 kWh | 205 | 35 kW (47 hp) | 71 mph |
| Dongfeng Box E1 | R459,000 ($25,200) | 32.6 kWh | 205 | 70 kW (94 hp) | 87 mph |
| BYD Dolphin | R539,900 ($29,700) | 44.9 kWh | 211–265 | 70–150 kW | N/A |
| GWM Ora 03 | R686,950 ($37,800) | 48–63 kWh | 193–261 | 126 kW (169 hp) | 99 mph |
These cars are reshaping South Africa’s EV market, making electric mobility more accessible than ever.
5 Cheapest Electric Cars in South Africa 2026: Price and Specs Comparison
2025 BYD Dolphin Surf Launch | South Africa’s Cheapest EV | First Impressions
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1. BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf is making waves as South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle, starting at just R339,900 (around $18,800 USD). This compact hatchback comes in two trims: the base-level Comfort and the more feature-packed Dynamic, which is priced at R389,900 (about $21,600 USD). With pricing that undercuts its nearest rival, the Dayun S5, by roughly R60,000 (around $3,300 USD), the Dolphin Surf is a step toward making electric vehicles a practical choice for many South Africans.
"BYD has officially announced pricing for the Dolphin Surf, positioning it as the most affordable EV in South Africa." – Cale Nuttall, Journalist
Here’s a closer look at what makes the BYD Dolphin Surf a standout option for city driving.
Battery Size and Range
The two trims differ significantly when it comes to battery capacity and range. The Comfort variant features a 30 kWh Blade Battery, offering a WLTP range of about 144 miles (232 km). On the other hand, the Dynamic trim is equipped with a larger 38.8 kWh battery, giving it a range of approximately 183 miles (295 km). Both models support DC fast charging, with the Comfort handling up to 30 kW and the Dynamic capable of up to 40 kW. These specs make the Dolphin Surf a solid choice for daily commutes and short trips.
Motor Power and Performance
Under the hood, both trims share a front-mounted electric motor that generates 55 kW (roughly 74 hp) and 135 Nm (about 100 lb-ft) of torque. The Comfort can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0–100 km/h) in around 14.2 seconds, with a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h). The Dynamic takes slightly longer, clocking in at about 15.5 seconds for the same sprint. While not built for speed demons, these numbers are more than adequate for urban driving and merging onto highways.
Key Features and Practicality
At approximately 157 inches (3,990 mm) in length, the Dolphin Surf is similar in size to a MINI Cooper, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets and squeezing into compact parking spaces. It comes equipped with a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, which can power small devices during outages. Safety is top-notch, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
The Dynamic trim adds even more convenience with features like wireless charging, electric seats, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Both trims are backed by a 3-year/62,000-mile (100,000 km) vehicle warranty, an 8-year/124,000-mile (200,000 km) battery warranty, and a 3-year/37,000-mile (60,000 km) service plan.
2. Dayun S5
The Dayun Yuehu S5 (also called the DY3) holds the title of the most affordable passenger electric vehicle in South Africa. It comes with a starting price of R399,900 for the Standard trim and R449,900 for the VIP trim.
Battery Size and Range
This compact EV is powered by a 31.7 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery, offering a claimed range of 205 miles (330 km) on a single charge. In everyday driving conditions, you can expect about 186 miles (300 km). The battery comes with a 5-year/75,000-mile (120,000 km) warranty. Charging is simple: a standard 220V AC outlet fully charges the battery in around four hours, while DC fast charging can take it from 20% to 80% in less than an hour.
Motor Power and Performance
The Dayun S5 features a front-mounted electric motor delivering 35 kW (47 hp) and 105 Nm (77 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (0–100 km/h) in 8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 71 mph (115 km/h). With an energy consumption of 10.7 kWh per 100 km, it’s a smart choice for city commutes.
"It’s really a city commuter rather than being suited for long-distance road trips, but it is officially the cheapest electric car you can buy today." – TechCentral
Key Features and Practicality
The S5 is a five-door hatchback with seating for four. Its minimalist interior is enhanced by premium leather finishes, making it feel more upscale than its price suggests. Standard features include a 7-inch LCD infotainment screen, an 8-inch digital display, Wi-Fi, and remote-controlled climate control.
For safety, it’s equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, a Traction Control System, Hill Start Assist, and Automatic Cruise Control. Opting for the VIP trim adds extras like four ultrasonic radars, LED daytime running lights, and turn-assist headlights.
Charging the S5 at home won’t break the bank either – a full charge costs less than R80 (around $4.40 USD), making it a highly economical choice for urban drivers.
Next, we’ll take a look at another budget-friendly EV transforming South Africa’s market.
3. Dongfeng Box E1 330
The Dongfeng Box E1 330 entered the South African market in November 2025, positioning itself as the third most affordable electric vehicle in the region. Priced at R459,000 (around $25,200 USD), it strikes a middle ground between the more economical Dayun S5 and the higher-end BYD Dolphin.
Battery Size and Range
This EV comes with a 32.6 kWh battery, offering a reported range of 330 km (205 miles). It supports DC fast charging, allowing the battery to jump from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Even an eight-minute charge can add approximately 200 km (124 miles) of range. The battery is covered by an eight-year/124,000-mile (200,000 km) warranty, while the vehicle itself includes a five-year/93,000-mile (150,000 km) warranty.
Motor Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Box E1 330 features a front-mounted electric motor delivering 70 kW (94 hp) and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque – double the power of the Dayun S5’s motor. Its top speed is capped at 140 km/h (87 mph), making it suitable for both city streets and highways. For an additional R60,000 ($3,300 USD) over the Dayun S5, it offers noticeably improved performance.
Key Features and Practicality
Despite its affordability, the Box E1 330 incorporates plenty of modern features. The interior, designed with simplicity in mind, includes a 12.8-inch touchscreen, a wireless charging pad, and heated and ventilated seats, all crafted with eco-friendly materials. Safety is also a priority, with features like Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto Park Assist, and a surround-view camera.
The purchase includes a five-year/62,000-mile (100,000 km) service plan. Buyers can choose from a range of colors, including Rain Blue, Fantasy Purple, Stone White, and Fruit Green. Up next, we’ll take a closer look at another budget-friendly EV option.
4. BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin takes the fourth spot on our list, with the Standard Range model priced at R539,900 (around $29,700 USD). Once considered the most budget-friendly option, the Dolphin now faces competition from newer models. However, it still holds its ground by offering a mix of affordability and solid performance.
Battery Size and Range
The Dolphin comes in two versions. The Standard Range is equipped with a 44.9 kWh Blade Battery, providing a WLTP range of 340 km (211 miles). Meanwhile, the Extended Range variant features a 60.5 kWh battery, delivering a WLTP range of 427 km (265 miles) [17,18]. Both models support DC fast charging – 60 kW for the Standard Range and 80 kW for the Extended Range – making them suitable for everything from daily errands to longer trips. The battery is covered by an eight-year/93,000-mile (150,000 km) warranty.
Motor Power and Performance
The Standard Range model generates 70 kW (94 hp) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque, reaching 62 mph (100 km/h) in 12.3 seconds. For those seeking more power, the Extended Range version, priced at R599,900 (about $33,000 USD), offers a 150 kW (201 hp) motor with 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque, cutting the 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) time down to 7.0 seconds [17,18]. This makes the Dolphin a far stronger performer compared to the Dayun S5’s modest 35 kW motor. These improvements enhance its overall practicality and appeal.
Key Features and Practicality
At 4,290 mm (169 inches) long, the Dolphin is slightly longer than a Volkswagen Golf, offering a 345-liter (12.2 cubic feet) trunk. Inside, it boasts a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with synthetic leather seating. The car is packed with safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist, and a 360-degree camera [17,18]. It has earned a 5-star safety rating from both Euro NCAP and Australian NCAP.
To top it off, the Dolphin comes with a five-year/62,000-mile (100,000 km) maintenance plan, offering more comprehensive coverage than a basic service plan.
5. GWM Ora 03
Starting Price
The GWM Ora 03 wraps up our list with a starting price of R686,950 (approximately $37,800 USD) for the base 300 Super Luxury model. While it’s the most expensive option among these affordable EVs, it aims to rival premium hatchbacks like the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. The Ora 03 is available in four trims, with the top-tier 400 GT Ultra Luxury priced at R835,950 (around $46,000 USD).
Battery Size and Range
The base 300 Super Luxury trim comes with a 48 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, offering a WLTP range of 310 km (193 miles). The three ‘400’ variants are equipped with a 63 kWh battery, delivering a range of 420 km (261 miles), though the GT version achieves slightly less at 400 km (249 miles). Real-world testing showed energy consumption at 18.7 kWh/100 km, which translates to a practical range about 16% lower than the official estimates. Charging options include a 64 kW DC fast charger, which can replenish the 48 kWh battery from 10% to 89% in roughly 50 minutes. Using an 11 kW AC charger, a full charge takes about 5.5 hours. At R3.50 per kWh, charging costs range between R170 and R250 (around $9 to $14 USD) for a full battery.
Motor Power and Performance
Every Ora 03 trim features a front-mounted motor producing 126 kW (169 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.2 to 8.5 seconds, with a top speed just below 99 mph (160 km/h). The car offers five driving modes – Auto, ECO, ECO+, Standard, and Sport – with the GT Ultra Luxury trim adding launch control for an extra performance edge. Operating costs are impressively low at R0.40 per kilometer, compared to R1.17 per kilometer for petrol-powered vehicles.
Key Features and Practicality
Blending performance with standout design, the Ora 03 brings a fresh look to the budget premium EV scene. Designed by former Porsche designer Emanuel Derta, it features a bold "retro-futuristic" aesthetic. Inside, all trims come equipped with dual 10.25-inch screens, a 360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise control as standard. The cabin is roomy, with generous rear legroom and headroom, while the trunk offers 228 liters (8.1 cubic feet) of storage, expandable to 858 liters (30.3 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. The GT variant ups the luxury with massaging, heated, and ventilated front seats. Safety is a priority, with six airbags, ESC, and traction control included across all trims. The Ora 03 also comes with a 7-year/124,000-mile (200,000 km) warranty and an 8-year/93,000-mile (150,000 km) warranty for high-voltage components.
"The Ora 03 is the exact type of electric vehicle (EV) South Africa needs to kickstart widespread adoption… presenting the perfect use case for EVs, being compact, noiseless, fun-to-drive city cars." – TopAuto
Price and Specs Comparison
Here’s a look at how these five budget-friendly EVs compare. The price range spans $19,100 USD (about R347,050), with the BYD Dolphin Surf being the most affordable, undercutting the second cheapest option by around $3,300 USD. Below is a breakdown of their specifications and prices to highlight the differences.
| Model | Starting Price | Battery Size | Claimed Range | Motor Power | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf | $18,700 USD (R339,900) | 30 kWh | 144 miles (232 km) | 74 hp (55 kW) | Not specified |
| Dayun S5 | $22,000 USD (R399,900) | 31.7 kWh | 205 miles (330 km) | 47 hp (35 kW) | 62 mph (100 km/h) |
| Dongfeng Box E1 330 | $25,300 USD (R459,000) | 32.6 kWh | 205 miles (330 km) | 94 hp (70 kW) | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| BYD Dolphin | $29,700 USD (R539,900) | 44.9 kWh | 211 miles (340 km) | 94 hp (70 kW) | Not specified |
| GWM Ora 03 | $37,800 USD (R686,950) | 48 kWh | 193 miles (310 km) | 169 hp (126 kW) | Not specified |
Looking at the table, the GWM Ora 03 stands out with a motor power of 169 hp (126 kW), more than double that of the lower-powered models. On the other hand, the Dayun S5 is clearly aimed at city driving, offering a modest 47 hp (35 kW) and a top speed of just 62 mph (100 km/h). The Dongfeng Box E1 330, however, strikes a balance with 94 hp (70 kW) and a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
When it comes to efficiency, the Dayun S5 achieves a range of 205 miles from its 31.7 kWh battery, outperforming the BYD Dolphin Surf, which offers only 144 miles from a 30 kWh battery. Each model has been designed with different strengths, catering to budget-conscious buyers with varying priorities in performance and efficiency.
Conclusion
South Africa’s electric vehicle market has seen a noticeable shift, with entry-level EV prices now starting at approximately $18,700 USD (R339,900) as of early 2026. This change has been largely influenced by Chinese brands like BYD, Dayun, Dongfeng, and GWM, which have introduced compact, city-friendly hatchbacks. These models often feature smaller battery packs and more aggressive pricing, outpacing traditional automakers in affordability.
Each of the five models discussed offers something different. The BYD Dolphin Surf, priced at $18,700 USD, is a standout for budget-conscious city drivers. For those prioritizing range without overspending, the Dayun S5 delivers an impressive 205 miles (330 km) for about $22,000 USD. On the other hand, drivers seeking a bit more power might lean toward the GWM Ora 03, which features a 169-hp (126 kW) motor, though it comes with a higher price tag of $37,800 USD. These options ensure a variety of choices tailored to urban commuters’ needs.
When choosing your EV, think about your daily driving range (144–211 miles), whether you have access to home charging, and the availability of maintenance plans. These factors can make all the difference in finding the right match for your lifestyle.
FAQs
What sets the BYD Dolphin Surf apart from the Dayun S5?
The BYD Dolphin Surf and Dayun S5 cater to different needs, with distinctions in size, price, range, and purpose. The BYD Dolphin Surf is a compact hatchback aimed at urban drivers, starting at $17,900 for its base model. It offers two battery options: a 30 kWh battery with a range of 144 miles, or a 38.8 kWh battery that extends the range to 183 miles. Powered by a 55 kW motor, it’s tailored for city commutes and stands out as one of the most affordable EVs available in South Africa.
The Dayun S5, by contrast, is a mini SUV designed for practicality and family use, with a starting price of $21,100. It features a more powerful 105 kW motor and delivers a longer range of 265 miles, making it a better choice for longer trips or more versatile use. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it offers additional space and utility, ideal for families.
In essence, the Dolphin Surf is a cost-effective option for city driving, while the Dayun S5 caters to those seeking greater range and family-friendly features at a slightly higher price point.
What are the charging options and costs for these affordable electric cars?
Charging costs and options for affordable electric vehicles (EVs) depend on the model and the type of charging setup you use. Take the BYD Dolphin Surf, for example. This budget-friendly EV supports fast charging, allowing you to go from 30% to 80% battery in roughly 30 minutes. Charging at home is where you’ll save the most, with daily driving costs averaging about $0.03 per mile – a fraction of what you’d spend on gas for a traditional car.
Other models, like the GWM Ora 03 and BYD Atto 3, also feature fast charging capabilities. Depending on the charger, these vehicles can reach 80% in about 25 to 50 minutes. For longer trips, public charging stations are widely available and still cost less than filling up with gasoline. However, home charging remains the most economical option. As the charging infrastructure grows, EV ownership is becoming even more convenient and budget-friendly.
What should I look for when buying an affordable electric car in South Africa?
When shopping for an affordable electric car in South Africa, start by evaluating your budget and the car’s range. The range is crucial because it dictates how practical the car will be for both daily commutes and longer journeys. For example, some electric vehicles (EVs) can travel over 250 miles on a single charge, making them suitable for a variety of driving scenarios.
Next, take a close look at the charging options. Consider how quickly the car can recharge and whether there are enough charging stations in your area. A vehicle with faster charging capabilities and access to a dependable charging network can make EV ownership much easier and less stressful.
Lastly, pay attention to features like safety systems, warranty coverage, and the overall build quality. Many budget-friendly models offer a mix of these essentials along with modern technology, ensuring they deliver good value. By balancing cost, range, and features, you can choose an EV that fits your lifestyle and meets your driving needs.
