BYD EA1 hatchback officially named Dolphin, based on 800 V EV platform
BYD’s new Dolphin. Images: BYD
BYD’s EA1 electric hatchback, unveiled at Auto Shanghai back in April, has been officially named Dolphin.
Adopting a new design philosophy of “ocean aesthetics”, the Dolphin is reminiscent of VW’s ID.3, and features a tall body with short front and rear overhangs. We’re not sure how the ocean theme has been realised (are those gills at the front?) However, it’s a pleasing if conventional small EV design.
BYD announced the new name alongside these images via its Weibo account in China. Designed by Wolfgang Egger — formerly of Alfa Romeo and the Volkswagen Group — The Dolphin introduces a new elongated BYD logo,
Specifications for the Dolphin were discovered in a regulatory filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The Dolphin offers a wheelbase of 2,700mm, and a length, width and height of 4,070mm, 1,770mm, and 1,570mm.
The BYD Dolphin debuts a new logo.
The rear design of the dolphin is on-trend with its horizontal LED bar.
Underpinned by BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, this next-generation EV architecture features an 800 V battery system to increase efficiency and allow for very fast charging. Heat pump technology will be standard, as will BYD’s signature lithium-irn-phosphate (LFP) Blade Battery technology.
The Dolphin will also debut BYD’s self-developed automotive OS dubbed BYD OS, which the company claims will bring enhanced autonomous driving.
Alongside the BYD e2, Nexport plans to bring the Dolphin to Australia in 2022 starting from “well under $35,000 AUD”. At this stage, it is not known whether the Dolphin nameplate will make it to markets outside China.
Source: Gasgoo Auto News