BYD launches low-cost ‘Dolphin Surf’ electric car in Europe

BERLIN: China’s BYD introduced its low-cost electric ‘Dolphin Surf’ car, its tenth model on offer in Europe, in Berlin on Wednesday, as sales across the region pick up speed after a strategic revamp.

The car will sell at three price points, from 22,990 euros ($26,100.55) for a 322-kilometre range, to 24,990 euros for a 507-kilometre range.

Until the end of June, the three versions will be available at a discounted price of 19,990-24,990 euros, sales chief Patrick Schulz announced on Wednesday.

The car piles pressure on Europe’s carmakers to offer more affordable electric alternatives, with cost still a major barrier to wider adoption of electric cars.

While only a handful of models, such as the Dacia Spring or Leapmotor’s T03, exist in Europe for under 20,000 euros, 11 new models priced under 25,000 euros will go on sale on the continent this year including Volkswagen’s ID.2, the Renault R5, the Fiat Grand Panda, and the Hyundai Inster.

“The compact segment is the next frontier for electrification in Europe,” Maria Grazia Davino, regionalmanaging director for markets including Germany, said in Berlin.

“We think this market has huge potential.”