CHINA IN OUR HANDS

Jeremy Walton drives the BYD Dolphin – how good is it and should European Manufacturers be worried?

We recently attended a Guild of Motoring Writers trackday at Castle Combe and took the opportunity to drive the new  Dolphin EV from Chinese manufacturer BYD. Jeremy Walton gives us his impressions from the driving seat:

I do not intend to go electric as I am a rural dweller with a petrol 2-seater I love, but this impressive package (from £26,195 to over £31,000 as tested) should be perfect for global city residents and worker bees.

A given that it is quiet even when rushing from rest to 62 mph in 7 seconds, or cruising at 70 mph. More impressive was the fit and finish of the exterior and 'Vegan' leather cockpit: more than a match for German premium marques.

Judged as a versatile SUV it has a soft ride, safe handling and so many clever details, including the vertical/landscape choice of central large screen that is particularly useful with three clear camera angles engaged when reversing.

Range anxieties? The makers reckon on a best of 265 miles and we had a 100 less than that pre-test: it came down to 153 after sunlit Somerset roads with exploration of the excellent acceleration and brakes. No, even on the maker's stats, it will be the recharging times that matter, so a good home setup will be a priority, as for all EVs.

What it demonstrated to me was that the Chinese are here in the west with product finished to premium levels at consumer-attractive prices. In the UK and possibly other English language countries with sentiment for MG, it could become impossible for Western manufacturers to sell equally attractive product below £35,000...

Jeremy Walton

CHINA IN OUR HANDS

Jeremy Walton drives the BYD Dolphin – how good is it and should European Manufacturers be worried?