The BYD DOLPHIN G DM-i is a new compact model from the Chinese manufacturer BYD, developed specifically for the European market. It is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV): the vehicle can run on electric power alone but uses a gasoline engine when necessary. The model’s European premiere took place in June 2026, with sales beginning in the summer. Initial deliveries to European customers were scheduled for early autumn.
The DOLPHIN G DM-i belongs to the B-segment and is a five-door hatchback measuring 4.16 meters in length. It seats five people and offers a trunk capacity of 425 liters, expanding to 1,225 liters with the rear seats folded down. The wheelbase measures 2,610 mm.
The vehicle's key feature is the BYD DM 5.0 hybrid system. For daily driving, the car prioritizes electric power, engaging the internal combustion engine based on the driving mode and battery status. This allows short city trips to be made primarily on electric power, while the gasoline engine provides extended range for longer journeys.
Buyers are offered two versions of the LFP-based BYD Blade Battery. The entry-level Active trim features a 7.42 kWh battery, offering an electric range of up to 40 km (WLTP). The higher-end Boost, Comfort, and Sport trims utilize an 18.3 kWh battery, providing up to 105 km of electric range (WLTP). With a fully charged battery and a full fuel tank, the manufacturer claims a combined range of up to 1,040 km.
Depending on the trim level, the system's total output is 129 or 156 kW (176 or 212 hp), the top speed is 180 km/h , and acceleration to 100 km/h takes 8.3 seconds. The top-end version supports DC charging at up to 39 kW: the battery charges from 10% to 80% in approximately...
The vehicle is available in six colors: Skiing White, Time Grey, Obsidian Black, Ocean Blue, Oxford White, and Orange Sunset. The latter features a pearlescent effect. Black or gray interiors are available for various trim levels, while the Sport trim offers combinations of black with orange or blue.
Key characteristics
Type: Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) | Engine: 1.5L gasoline + electric motor | Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive | Power: 129/156 kW (176/212 hp) | Battery: Blade Battery LFP, 7.42 or 18.3 kWh | Electric range: Up to 40/105 km (WLTP) | Total range: Up to 1020/1040 km (WLTP) | Top speed: 180 km/h | 0–100 km/h: 8.3 s | Dimensions: 4160×1825×1575 mm | Wheelbase: 2610 mm | Trunk capacity: 425–1225 L | Weight: 1440–1555 kg.
Sales in Europe: yes. Orders are open in European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. For instance, the starting price in France is announced at €23,990, while the model is already on sale in Spain.
European launch date: June 2026.
Source: Official BYD information on the DOLPHIN G DM-i
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