BYD converts its EV hatch into a van with leading range for $40K

BYD launched the purely electric van based on the Dolphin hatchback, one of the brand’s most popular EVs globally.

Meet the BYD Dolphin Cargo e-Van

With nearly 250,000 models sold, the BYD Dolphin was the 10th-best-selling EV in the world last year, according to data compiled by CleanTechnica.

BYD sells the electric hatch in nearly every pocket of the globe. In China, the Dolphin starts at under 100,000 yuan, or less than $15,000.

In Europe and the UK, the BYD Dolphin is priced from €28,990 ($33,700) and £30,230 ($40,500), respectively, as one of the most affordable EVs in its segment. Now, BYD’s electric hatch can be bought as an all-electric van.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

Based on the standard Dolphin Comfort trim, the Cargo e-Van offers a “class-leading” pure-electric city range and versatile interior.

Powered by BYD’s 60.4 kWh LFP Blade battery and a 201 hp (204 PS) electric motor, the Dolphin e-Van offers a WLTP range of up to 347 miles in the city and 265 miles combined.

BYD said the long-range capabilities will help businesses reduce operating costs while maximizing fleet efficiency.

While it’s the same length as the standard Dolphin at 4,290 mm, BYD removed the rear seats and installed a metal bulkhead behind the front seats, freeing up a load capacity of 1,093 liters. The maximum load length is 1,250 mm, the maximum width is 1,160 mm, and the maximum load length is 710 mm.

It also includes added smart storage under the floor, hardwearing door cards, and bumper protection film. For added security, BYD offers several rear window options, including polycarbonate panels.

Since the van is based on the Comfort, it includes equipment and tech that go beyond what many commercial buyers expect, BYD said, including Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), a heat pump, heated steering wheel and front seats, a 360-degree parking camera, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

BYD said it can provide a wide range of custom upfit upgrades, such as backup alarms, amber warning beacons, exterior graphics or branding, and custom storage configurations.

The Dolphin Cargo e-Van is now available to order through select UK BYD retailers, priced from £29,358 ($39,500). Including VAT, it costs £36,305 ($48,800).