BYD Dolphin EV Hatch Sighted In Malaysia – Launching Soon?

BYD Dolphin sighted in what appears to be Port Klang. Note its right-hand-drive (RHD) layout. (Source: WhatsApp)

Earlier today, CariCarz.com has obtained this undated photo that’s making its rounds on WhatsApp recently showing the BYD Dolphin compact EV hatch making landfall here in Malaysia.

While we are unable to verify its actual source, there are plenty of tell-tale signs indicating this photo being snapped right here in Malaysia. Besides what appears to be a the familiar sight of Port Klang in the background, you can clearly see the Dolphin pictured is a right-hand-drive (RHD) unit.

It also seemingly appears to be the sole Dolphin model delivered alongside a batch of Atto 3 EV SUVs. The latter is presumably the latest of which that’s destined for deliveries to their owners this month. The fact that just one unit was spotted also indicates one of several possibilities.

Chinese-spec BYD Dolphin.

Firstly, this unit could be tasked internally by importers and distributors Sime Darby Beyond Auto Sdn Bhd (SDBA) initially as the unit for legislative-related tasks, namely vehicle type approval (VTA). This is a key step that all new car models must undergo locally before it is allowed to go on sale in Malaysia.

After type-approval, it’s likely that this unit will also be tasked with internal assessment efforts by SDBA before it is launched. This will include field- and road-testing, likely with a camouflage on, especially in the months (or weeks) ahead of the model’s planned launch, which is widely pipped to happen this year.

A 1:18 scale model of the BYD Dolphin on display in the recently opened Sisma Auto BYD 3S Centre in Glenmarie. Read about it by clicking these blue words...

Ahead of its launch, we can also expect to see more units brought in, likely charged as dealer display units. For now though, this unit is perhaps the only confirmed sighting of the highly anticipated compact EV hatch model that’s set to chart an equally successful path in the local market as how the Atto 3 has.

Crucially, this recent local sighting of the BYD Dolphin at (presumably) Port Klang could only mean we are getting closer to its official launch. The folks over at SDBA are keeping tight-lipped about the model’s timelines, but key execs have recently hinted that things will happen soon enough.

The Dolphin's compact size measures just 220 MM shorter in length and 22 MM wider than the Honda City Hatchback.

As a refresher, the Dolphin, as well as the larger Seal sports saloon, were literally ‘teased’ during the BYD Atto 3’s official Malaysian launch. Said hatch recently entered the booming EV market in the Kingdom north of our border as well,  priced at THB694,000 (RM89,321) in range-topping Premium S trimline.

In terms of specifications, the Malaysia-bound BYD Dolphin should mirror that of its Thai-spec counterparts too. We can expect a single front-mounted electric motor delivering 94 HP and 180 NM, which is juiced by a 44.9 kWh ‘blade’ battery pack that accepts rapid DC charging inputs of up to 60 kW.

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Said fast-charging method allows 30-80% recharges in just 30 minutes, whereas a full charge grants up to 410 KM of range (NEDC). Additionally, this pint-sized sibling to the Atto 3 also boasts vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which effectively sees the Dolphin act as a giant power bank to power devices and appliances.

Furthermore, the BYD Dolphin also boasts a fairly compact footprint. Measuring 4,125 MM long with a 2,700 MM Wheelbase, and just 1,770 MM wide, this electrified hatch actually 220 MM shorter in length and 22 MM wider than the Honda City Hatchback, thus making it a perfectly-sized urban commuter.