Thabo Nkosi 
The BYD Dolphin Surf is now the most affordable electric vehicle (EV) in South Africa, starting at $18,300 (R339,900). It’s priced $3,200 (R60,000) lower than the previous budget leader, the Dayun S5, making it a compelling option for urban commuters. The Dolphin Surf offers two variants, with ranges of 144 miles and 183 miles, and includes features like Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
Here’s how it compares to other budget EVs like the Dayun S5, Dongfeng Box E1 330, and GWM Ora 03:
- BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort: $18,300, 144-mile range, 55kW motor.
- Dayun S5: $21,500, 205-mile range, 35kW motor.
- Dongfeng Box E1 330: $24,750, 205-mile range, 70kW motor.
- GWM Ora 03: $36,950, 193-mile range, 126kW motor.
The Dolphin Surf is ideal for cost-conscious buyers seeking a reliable, entry-level EV for daily commutes.
South Africa’s Most Affordable Electric Vehicles Comparison 2025
BYD Dolphin Surf Review – Does CHEAP Equal GOOD?
1. BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf comes in two versions: the Comfort, priced at R339,900 (roughly $18,300), and the Dynamic, available for R389,900 (about $21,000). Both models include a 7kW home wallbox charger, a 3-year/62,137-mile warranty, and an 8-year/124,274-mile battery warranty. Known globally as the BYD Atto 1, this compact electric vehicle (EV) measures approximately 12.9 feet in length, making it comparable in size to a MINI Cooper.
Price
At R339,900, the Comfort variant earns the title of South Africa’s most budget-friendly EV.
Range
The Comfort variant provides a WLTP-rated range of 144 miles, powered by its 30.08 kWh battery. The Dynamic model, with a larger 38.88 kWh battery, extends the range to 183 miles. Both versions utilize BYD’s Blade Battery technology and e-Platform 3.0, which enhance the vehicle’s structural strength. For charging, the Comfort supports 30kW DC fast charging, while the Dynamic handles up to 40kW.
Motor Power
Both models are equipped with a 55kW motor (equivalent to 74 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque) driving the front wheels. The Comfort variant accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 14.2 seconds, while the Dynamic takes 15.5 seconds due to its heavier battery.
Battery Capacity and Vehicle-to-Load
The Comfort’s 30.08 kWh battery is well-suited for daily commutes, while the Dynamic’s 38.88 kWh battery offers greater flexibility for longer journeys. Additionally, both variants feature Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, enabling users to power small appliances or devices during outages.
Safety Features
The Dolphin Surf boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, thanks to its body structure made of 61% high-strength steel, which provides excellent collision protection. Standard safety features include ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stability and traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The Comfort model comes with four airbags, while the Dynamic is equipped with six.
Owners can also use the BYD smartphone app to remotely manage key functions like battery status, locking, and preconditioning the cabin temperature. These advanced safety and convenience features set a strong benchmark as we assess how other models stack up.
2. Dayun S5
The Dayun S5 (also called the Dayun Yuehu S5) made its debut in South Africa in July 2025, starting at R399,900 (roughly $21,500). This compact crossover, measuring about 12.1 feet in length, is tailored for city driving. Below, we break down its price, range, motor performance, and safety features.
Price
Priced at R399,900, the Dayun S5 costs about R60,000 more than the entry-level alternative. For those seeking additional features, the VIP trim is available at R449,900 (approximately $24,200). This upgraded version includes 16-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors for both the front and rear, and the SmartLink app, enabling remote control of the car’s locks, windows, and climate settings.
Range
The S5 is equipped with a 31.7 kWh ternary lithium battery, offering an estimated range of 205 miles (330 km). This is a notable improvement over the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort, which has a range of just 144 miles. Charging options include AC charging, which takes about four hours, and DC fast charging, which can boost the battery from 20% to 80% in under an hour. The vehicle also comes with a 3-year/37,282-mile warranty and service plan, along with a 5-year/74,565-mile battery warranty.
Motor Power
When it comes to power, the Dayun S5 is equipped with a 35kW motor (approximately 47 horsepower) and delivers 77 lb-ft of torque. This is less powerful than the BYD Dolphin Surf’s 55kW motor. With a top speed of around 62 mph, the S5 is clearly designed with urban commutes in mind rather than long highway trips.
Safety Features
The Dayun S5 includes a solid lineup of safety features, such as dual front airbags, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, hill start assist, slope descent control, tire pressure monitoring, a reverse camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a steel cage body structure. However, it’s worth noting that the S5 currently lacks crash test ratings from international organizations like Euro NCAP or Global NCAP. These factors will likely play a role in future comparisons with other models.
3. Dongfeng Box E1 330
The Dongfeng Box E1 330 is set to hit the market in early 2025, offering a compact electric hatchback that strikes a balance between cost and performance. Priced between R460,000 and R510,000 (around $24,750 to $27,450), this model is part of Dongfeng’s "Nammi" sub-brand and comes in a variety of vibrant color options.
Price
With a starting price of roughly R460,000 (about $24,750), the E1 330 slots between competitors like the Dayun S5 and BYD Dolphin. Locally, the vehicle is handled by E Auto Motor, which has invested $5 million (R89 million) in infrastructure and service centers across South Africa.
Range
The E1 330 is powered by a 31.45 kWh battery, providing a range of 205 miles. For those requiring more, a higher-spec version with a 42.3 kWh battery extends the range to an impressive 267 miles (430 km). Charging options include DC fast charging, which takes the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes, and a 6.6 kW AC home wallbox that fully charges the vehicle in about 7 hours. Additionally, a quick eight-minute charge on high-speed DC infrastructure can deliver around 124 miles (200 km) of range. These charging capabilities and range options make it a strong contender in its segment.
Motor Power
The E1 330 is equipped with a 70 kW front-mounted motor, delivering 94 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. This setup allows the car to reach a top speed of 87 mph and accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 12.5 seconds. Compared to its rivals, it outperforms the Dayun S5’s 35 kW motor and the BYD Dolphin Surf’s 55 kW motor. Measuring 4,020 mm in length with a 2,660 mm wheelbase, the Box is sized between the Volkswagen Polo and Polo Vivo, offering a practical 326 liters of cargo space.
Safety Features
The E1 330 doesn’t skimp on safety, featuring an array of advanced driver assistance systems. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Auto Park Assist, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Inside, the car boasts a clean and modern design with features like a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, heated and ventilated seats, wireless charging, and a 32-color ambient lighting system.
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4. GWM Ora 03
The GWM Ora 03, previously known as the Ora Good Cat or Funky Cat, is making waves in South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market. This retro-inspired electric hatchback is available in four trims, with prices starting at R686,950 and going up to R835,950 (approximately $36,950 to $44,950). Introduced in late 2023 as the most affordable EV in the country, it now holds the title of the fourth most budget-friendly option.
Price
The Ora 03 offers a range of trims to cater to different needs and budgets. The base model, the 300 Super Luxury, starts at R686,950 (around $36,950). Moving up, the 400 Super Luxury is priced at R775,950, and the 400 Ultra Luxury comes in at R805,950. At the top of the range, the 400 GT Ultra Luxury is available for R835,950 (approximately $44,950). While it initially entered the market as the cheapest EV, newer models have since undercut its price point, but the Ora 03 continues to stand out with its distinct features.
Range
The 300 Super Luxury trim is equipped with a 48 kWh battery, delivering a range of 193 miles. Meanwhile, the 400 series models boast a larger 63 kWh battery, extending the range to 261 miles. While this falls slightly short of the Dayun S5’s 205-mile range, it still offers competitive performance. The Ora 03 supports 80 kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to go from 10% to 80% in just 40 to 41 minutes. Energy consumption across the lineup is efficient, ranging between 16.5 and 16.7 kWh/100 km.
Motor Power
All Ora 03 variants share the same motor setup: a 126 kW (169 hp) motor paired with 250 Nm of torque. Drivers can choose from multiple driving modes to strike the right balance between performance and efficiency.
Safety Features
The Ora 03 doesn’t skimp on safety, offering a suite of advanced driver-assist features across all trims. Standard systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Junction Assist to help avoid accidents. Parking is made easier with a 360-degree panoramic camera, while additional features like rear cross traffic alert, rollover mitigation, and collision warnings provide extra peace of mind.
Inside, the Ora 03 offers a modern and tech-forward cabin. Dual 10.25-inch touchscreens come standard, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The interior also features a vegan-friendly design. The top-tier 400 GT Ultra Luxury trim adds sporty elements like red brake calipers, GT-specific bumpers, a panoramic sunroof, and even a launch control function for an added performance edge.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Looking at the detailed reviews above, here’s a quick breakdown of the trade-offs for each budget EV. Each model brings its own strengths and compromises, making it easier to find one that fits your needs.
The BYD Dolphin Surf is priced about $3,200 (R60,000) lower than the Dayun S5 and includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology – a handy feature in areas prone to power outages. It also comes with an eight-year/124,274-mile battery warranty and a three-year/62,137-mile service plan. However, it falls short in performance, with 0–62 mph acceleration times ranging from 14.2 to 15.5 seconds, a top speed of 81 mph, and a compact trunk offering just 8.1 cubic feet of space (expandable to 32.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded).
The Dayun S5, while designed for city commuting, has lost its competitive pricing edge with the arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf. On the other hand, the Dongfeng Box E1 330 and GWM Ora 03 are positioned at higher price points. The Ora 03, starting at $36,950 (R686,950), boasts a larger body and a more powerful 169 hp motor. However, its premium price makes it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the four models:
| Model | Starting Price | Battery Capacity | Motor Power | Range (WLTP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort | $18,300 (R339,900) | 30.08 kWh | 74 hp (55 kW) | 144 miles (232 km) |
| Dayun S5 Standard | $21,500 (R399,900) | 31.7 kWh | 47 hp (35 kW) | ~205 miles (330 km) |
| Dongfeng Box E1 330 | $24,750 (R460,000) | 31.45 kWh | 94 hp (70 kW) | 205 miles (330 km) |
| GWM Ora 03 (300 Super Luxury) | $36,950 (R686,950) | 48 kWh | 169 hp (126 kW) | 193 miles (310 km) |
The BYD Dolphin Surf’s base model, with its 144-mile range, is ideal for daily commutes but might require more careful planning for longer trips. If you opt for the higher-spec Dolphin Surf Dynamic, you’ll get a range of 183 miles for an extra $2,700 (R50,000), though it still falls short of the range offered by pricier competitors.
For buyers focused on affordability and practical features like V2L, the BYD Dolphin Surf stands out as the best value. However, if you’re looking for more range, power, or interior space, the Ora 03 or Dayun S5 might be worth considering – though you’ll need to stretch your budget to get there.
Conclusion
The comparisons above clearly show why the BYD Dolphin Surf is a standout option. Priced at $18,300 (R339,900), it brings electric vehicles within reach for a larger audience, offering nearly $3,200 (R60,000) in savings compared to its nearest competitor. Plus, it comes packed with features like Vehicle-to-Load capability, a 7kW home wallbox charger, an eight-year/124,274-mile battery warranty, and a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
For urban drivers trying to balance cost and practicality, this car checks all the boxes. The Comfort model, with its 144-mile range, is perfect for daily commutes, while the Dynamic model offers extended range for an extra $2,700 (R50,000). With its mix of proven tech, useful features, and the most affordable price tag in South Africa’s electric vehicle market, the BYD Dolphin Surf is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
FAQs
Why is the BYD Dolphin Surf considered South Africa’s most affordable electric car?
The BYD Dolphin Surf has earned the title of South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle, with a starting price of just R339,000 – comfortably under the R400,000 mark. Its affordability stems from a smart design that includes a 30 kWh Blade battery, a 55 kW front-wheel motor, and a sleek hatchback body built on BYD’s cutting-edge e-Platform 3.0.
This setup doesn’t just keep costs down – it strikes a solid balance between performance and practicality. For South Africans looking to embrace electric mobility, the Dolphin Surf offers an eco-conscious, budget-friendly option without skimping on the essentials.
What is Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, and how does it work in the BYD Dolphin Surf?
The BYD Dolphin Surf comes equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, turning its high-capacity Blade Battery into a portable power source. This clever system takes the battery’s DC energy and converts it into standard AC electricity, which you can access through a dedicated outlet inside the car.
What does this mean for you? With V2L, you can plug in and power small appliances like laptops, lights, or even a kettle – all directly from the vehicle. It’s a game-changer for camping adventures or as a backup power option during unexpected outages. Essentially, the Dolphin Surf acts as a mobile generator, relying on the same battery that powers its 55 kW electric motor. No need for an external generator or extra equipment – this car has you covered.
What is the warranty coverage for the BYD Dolphin Surf’s battery and vehicle?
At the moment, there isn’t any detailed information about the warranty terms for the BYD Dolphin Surf’s battery or the vehicle as a whole. It’s likely that these details will be shared as the release date approaches. If you’re considering this vehicle, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for updates as they become available.
