BYD Dolphin Surf UK Launch: A Car Event Unlike Any Other
On June 11th, we had the chance to attend the UK launch of the BYD Dolphin Surf at the Alexandra Palace in London , and let's just say, it was nothing like any other car launch we've ever experienced.
From thrilling test drives and tasty street food to karaoke and live performances, the future of driving feels more exciting than ever.
This event put us right in the driver's seat—literally. BYD gave attendees the opportunity to test drive the Dolphin Surf, and that’s where this car truly started to shine. Smooth and sturdy on the road, the Dolphin Surf delivered a driving experience that felt solid, responsive, and confidence-inspiring—especially for a compact EV.
A Clean, Clever Interior
Inside, the Dolphin Surf isn’t overly quirky, but it doesn’t fall into the trap of being boring either. The interior design is smart and refreshingly original. A gradient diamond motif stretches across the dash top, adding a subtle splash of personality, while the dashboard itself gently curves underneath the car’s central 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
This screen—like in the larger BYD models—rotates between landscape and portrait modes at the touch of a button (unless you’re using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, where it's fixed). A smaller 7.0-inch digital driver's display gives you all the driving info you need without being cluttered.
Overall, it's a cabin that feels modern and thoughtful, and dare we say—more interesting than what you’ll find in some cars double the price.
Three Variants, Three Personalities
The BYD Dolphin Surf comes in three trims, each with its own battery size, motor output, and range:
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Dolphin Surf Active (entry-level):
Equipped with a smaller battery, this variant offers up to 137 miles of range—ideal for city commuters and shorter trips.
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Dolphin Surf Boost (mid-spec):
This version bumps the range up to 200 miles, making it the most efficient option in the lineup for those balancing urban and suburban driving.
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Dolphin Surf Comfort (top trim):
Interestingly, this model offers slightly less range at 193 miles, due to a more powerful motor. It's the Dolphin Surf for those who want a little extra punch in performance, even if it means a few fewer miles between charges.
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Final Thoughts
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The Dolphin Surf is BYD's bold new play in the UK's compact EV market, and from what we experienced on launch day, it's a serious contender. With competitive range figures, a smartly designed interior, and a truly enjoyable driving feel, it's clear this isn't just another budget-friendly EV—it’s a thoughtfully engineered package.
And the launch event itself? It set a new standard. Engaging, hands-on, and refreshingly real—just like the car.