Thabo Nkosi 
South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market is transforming as affordable options finally hit the scene. Once dominated by high-priced luxury models starting at around R687,000 ($38,000), new entrants from Chinese manufacturers are cutting costs nearly in half. The BYD Dolphin Surf leads the charge with a starting price of R339,900 ($18,800), making it the cheapest EV in the country. Other models like the Dayun S5 and Dongfeng Box E1 330 offer competitive pricing and features aimed at budget-conscious buyers, while the GWM Ora 03 targets those seeking premium performance at a higher price.
Key Highlights:
- BYD Dolphin Surf: Starts at R339,900 ($18,800), urban-focused with a range of 232 km.
- Dayun S5: Priced at R399,900 ($22,100), offers a higher range of 330 km.
- Dongfeng Box E1 330: R459,000 ($25,400), balances power and range for city and highway use.
- GWM Ora 03: Premium option starting at R686,950 ($38,000), with a range of up to 420 km.
This shift is making EVs more accessible, with prices now aligning with what 72% of South Africans are willing to spend (under R600,000). Despite challenges like high import duties and taxes, these new models cater to a growing demand for cost-effective, practical, and reliable electric vehicles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable city car or a feature-packed option, there’s now an EV to fit your needs and budget.
South Africa’s Most Affordable EVs: Price, Range, and Performance Comparison 2026
BYD Dolphin Surf Review – SA’s Most Affordable Electric Car
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1. BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf is making waves as the first electric vehicle in South Africa to dip below the R400,000 mark. With two models available – the Comfort at R339,900 (around $18,800) and the Dynamic at R389,900 (approximately $21,600) – both options include a 7kW home wallbox charger, a 3-year/100,000km warranty, and an 8-year/200,000km battery warranty.
Measuring 154 inches, similar in size to a Volkswagen Polo Vivo, the Dolphin Surf is tailored for city driving. The Comfort model offers a WLTP range of 232km, while the Dynamic stretches that to 295km. Both feature BYD’s lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery technology and are powered by a 55 kW motor with 135 Nm of torque, making them ideal for daily urban commutes.
When it comes to performance, the Comfort model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 14.2 seconds, while the Dynamic takes 15.5 seconds. Both versions have a top speed of 130 km/h. A standout feature is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which allows the car to function as a mobile power source – a handy solution during power outages. Additionally, the Dynamic supports faster DC charging at up to 40 kW, compared to the Comfort’s 30 kW.
Practicality is a strong suit for this vehicle, which includes advanced safety and connectivity features.
"The BYD Dolphin Surf represents our belief that sustainable mobility shouldn’t be out of reach, it should be an exciting, everyday reality for real people, in real cities, living real lives."
– Ming Xing, Brand and Marketing Manager, BYD Auto South Africa
Safety is another highlight, with the Dolphin Surf earning a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating – the only compact EV in its category to achieve this. Standard features include a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen, voice-activated controls, and smartphone app integration for remote monitoring and cabin preconditioning. It’s designed with first-time EV buyers, young professionals, and urban families in mind, offering an affordable and practical entry point into the world of electric mobility.
2. Dayun S5
The Dayun S5, brought to South Africa by Enviro Automotive, is making waves in the local EV market. Priced at R399,900 (about $22,100) for the Standard model and R449,900 (roughly $24,900) for the VIP trim, this compact electric crossover offers affordability without skimping on features. Both models come with a 3-year/60,000 km service warranty and a 5-year/120,000 km battery warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. Measuring about 145 inches in length – similar to the Renault Kwid – it’s a perfect fit for city dwellers who value easy maneuverability.
The S5 is specifically designed for urban driving, powered by a 31.7 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery. This setup delivers a range of 205 miles and an energy consumption of 17.2 kWh per 100 miles. Its front-mounted 35 kW motor generates 105 Nm of torque, allowing a top speed of 71.5 mph. Charging options include DC fast charging, which takes the battery from 20% to 80% in under an hour, and a standard 220V outlet that fully charges the vehicle in about four hours.
With a 7.9-inch ground clearance, the S5 handles urban roads comfortably. The VIP trim adds extra convenience and style, featuring the SmartLink App for remote functions like climate control, window operation, and vehicle locking – all accessible via smartphone. It also includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and front and rear parking sensors. Safety is a priority across both trims, offering dual airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, hill start assist, and a reverse camera as standard.
"The Dayun S5 is a game-changer for its efficiency and low commuting costs. It surpasses small petrol and diesel city cars in terms of cost savings and performance."
– Gideon Wolvaardt, Managing Director, Enviro Automotive
Like the BYD Dolphin Surf, the Dayun S5 highlights the growing trend toward affordable, practical electric vehicles for urban users. With 35,000 units sold in China before its South African launch, the S5 has already proven its appeal. Whether as an entry point into the EV world or as a secondary city car, it’s a smart choice for budget-conscious commuters seeking efficient and reliable urban mobility.
3. Dongfeng Box E1 330
The Dongfeng Box E1 330 is making waves in South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market, offering a mix of affordability and features. Priced at R459,000 (around $25,400), it holds the title of the second most affordable full-speed EV in the country. Unlike many budget EVs that struggle with top speeds, this compact hatchback can hit 87 mph (140 km/h) and comfortably cruise at 75 mph (120 km/h) on highways, making it a practical choice for both city trips and longer drives. Measuring about 158 inches (4,030 mm) in length, it fits neatly into the B-segment hatchback category.
Under the hood, the Box E1 330 delivers 70 kW of power and 160 Nm of torque, taking 12.5 seconds to go from 0 to 62 mph (0–100 km/h). Its 32.6 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery provides a range of up to 205 miles (330 km) on the CLTC cycle, which translates to roughly 168 miles (WLTP) or 144 miles (EPA). For added convenience, DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes, while a quick 8-minute charge adds about 124 miles (200 km) of range.
Inside, the cabin boasts a clean, modern design featuring a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, a 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and a clever drawer-style glovebox. Practicality isn’t overlooked, with up to 33.4 cubic feet (945 liters) of cargo space available when the rear seats are folded. Buyers also benefit from a comprehensive warranty package: a 5-year/93,000-mile vehicle warranty, an 8-year/124,000-mile battery warranty, and a 5-year/62,000-mile service plan.
Geared toward budget-conscious drivers and small families who need a reliable, highway-ready EV, the Box E1 330 is priced about $3,300 higher than the Dayun S5 but undercuts the BYD Dolphin by approximately $4,500. For those in search of an affordable electric hatchback that balances cost and capability, the Dongfeng Box E1 330 is a strong contender, adding more variety to South Africa’s growing EV market.
4. GWM Ora 03
GWM continues to make waves in the push for accessible urban EVs with the Ora 03. Starting at R686,950 ($38,000) and topping out at R835,950 ($46,300), this hatchback blends retro-modern aesthetics – crafted by former Porsche designer Emanuel Derta – with premium features at a competitive price point. At 166 inches (4,235 mm) long, the Ora 03 is tailor-made for city dwellers who want high-end features without the hefty luxury car price tag. It’s positioned as a direct rival to boutique hatchbacks like the Mini Cooper SE.
The Ora 03 comes equipped with a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 126 kW and 250 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph. The base 300 Super Luxury model features a 48 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, delivering a WLTP range of 193 miles (310 km). Meanwhile, the higher-tier 400 versions use a 63 kWh nickel-manganese cobalt battery, extending the range to 261 miles (420 km). Charging times are practical: DC fast charging takes 50-60 minutes to go from 10% to 89%, while a full home charge with an 11 kW AC charger takes about 5.5 hours.
What really sets the Ora 03 apart is its affordability when it comes to running costs. At around R0.40 ($0.02) per kilometer, it’s significantly cheaper to operate than comparable gasoline vehicles, which average R1.17 ($0.06) per kilometer. A full home charge costs between R170 and R250 ($9.40-$13.85), and DC fast charging ranges from R250 to R300 ($13.85-$16.60). Add to that a robust warranty package – 7 years/124,000 miles for the vehicle, 8 years/93,000 miles for high-voltage components, and a 7-year/65,000-mile service plan – and you have an EV that’s as practical as it is stylish.
"The Ora 03… is the exact type of electric vehicle (EV) South Africa needs to kickstart widespread adoption… being compact, noiseless, ideal for urban commutes rather than continental cruisers." – TopAuto Feature Review
Inside, the Ora 03 delivers a premium experience that rivals luxury hatchbacks like the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. Standard features include dual 10.25-inch screens, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Higher trims add comforts like massaging ventilated front seats and panoramic sunroofs. While cargo space is somewhat limited – 8 cubic feet (228 liters), expandable to 30.3 cubic feet (858 liters) with the rear seats folded – the compact size and nimble handling make it perfect for city driving. With its blend of style, efficiency, and affordability, the Ora 03 represents a new era of EVs designed for urban commuters.
Strengths and Weaknesses
South Africa’s affordable EV market is evolving, and each model in this segment reflects different priorities and compromises to meet specific price points. For buyers, understanding these trade-offs is essential when making a choice.
The BYD Dolphin Surf stands out as the most affordable option at $18,800 (R339,900), undercutting its closest competitor by nearly $3,300 (R60,000). However, this low price comes with a trade-off: the shortest range in the lineup at just 144 miles (232 km). It’s ideal for urban commutes but less suited for longer trips.
The Dayun S5, priced at $22,100 (R399,900), offers a more generous range of 205 miles (330 km). However, its limited power output caps the top speed at 62 mph (100 km/h), which might feel restrictive for highway driving. On the other hand, the Dongfeng Box E1 330 provides a more balanced package at $25,400 (R459,000). It delivers 70 kW of power, the same 205-mile (330 km) range, and a higher top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h), making it a versatile option.
At the premium end is the GWM Ora 03, priced at $38,000 (R686,950). It offers 126 kW of power, advanced safety features, and a standout 7-year/124,000-mile warranty, the best in the group. However, this level of performance and warranty comes at a significant cost – nearly $19,200 (R347,050) more than the Dolphin Surf.
| Model | Starting Price | Key Strength | Key Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf | $18,800 (R339,900) | Lowest entry price in SA | Shortest range; urban use only |
| Dayun S5 | $22,100 (R399,900) | High range for the price | Limited power; 62 mph top speed |
| Dongfeng Box E1 330 | $25,400 (R459,000) | Balanced power and range | Limited top speed (87 mph) |
| GWM Ora 03 | $38,000 (R686,950) | High performance; long warranty | Most expensive in this group |
Safety and technology also vary widely across these models. The standard BYD Dolphin boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, but the Surf variant sacrifices some advanced driver assistance features compared to the Ora 03. For those prioritizing long-term value, the Ora 03’s unmatched warranty may justify the higher upfront cost.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your driving needs. If you’re a budget-conscious urban driver, the Dolphin Surf is a practical pick. For occasional highway trips or a more balanced driving experience, the Dongfeng Box E1 330 fits the bill. And if performance and long-term peace of mind are your top priorities, the Ora 03 is worth the investment.
Conclusion
South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market has seen a remarkable shift in just a few years. Back in early 2024, the starting price for highway-capable EVs was over $38,700 (R700,000). By 2026, that price has dropped to under $18,800 (R340,000), thanks to the growing presence of Chinese manufacturers like BYD, Dayun, Dongfeng, and GWM.
Today, there’s an EV for nearly every type of driver and budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable city car or a feature-packed model, these vehicles are designed to meet a variety of needs. The BYD Dolphin Surf is perfect for budget-conscious urban drivers, while the Dayun S5 offers impressive range at a competitive price. For those seeking a balance of performance and versatility, the Dongfeng Box E1 330 is a solid choice. Meanwhile, the GWM Ora 03 caters to drivers who value premium features and power, even at a higher price point.
This transformation isn’t just about the cars – it’s also about the infrastructure and incentives supporting them. BYD has ambitious plans to install 200 to 300 public chargers across South Africa by 2026, including ultra-fast 1MW chargers to reduce charging times dramatically. On top of that, government policies like the 150% tax deduction for EV production equipment, starting in March 2026, are paving the way for further growth.
These advancements are reshaping South Africa’s automotive market, making EVs more accessible than ever. Whether your priority is affordability, range, or performance, there’s now a Chinese-made EV that fits your lifestyle and budget.
FAQs
What will it cost to charge an EV in South Africa?
Charging an EV in South Africa generally costs around R34.93 per 100 km. Take the Hyundai Kona Electric, for instance – it has an estimated energy cost of R5.15 per kWh and offers a range of about 305 km per full charge. However, actual costs can differ depending on electricity prices and how efficiently the vehicle uses energy.
Which of these budget EVs is best for highway driving?
The BYD Dolphin Surf is a standout option for highway driving, thanks to its combination of affordability and range. It delivers a practical distance for longer journeys while maintaining a compact design that works equally well in city traffic and on highways. With battery technology capable of handling highway speeds with ease, it proves to be a reliable choice. While other models, such as the GWM Ora 03 and BYD Atto 3, perform reasonably well, the Dolphin Surf shines in terms of value and adaptability.
How do EV warranties and battery warranties differ?
EV warranties typically protect a wide range of vehicle components for a specific period or mileage. However, the battery warranty is a separate coverage designed exclusively for the high-voltage battery. These warranties often extend up to 8 years or 100,000 miles and address problems such as battery failure or a noticeable drop in capacity.
