BYD Dolphin Mini Rolling in Mexico — Cheapest Electric Car By Far

The BYD Seagull, a small and super affordable electric car from the top-selling plugin vehicle producer in the world, has now entered a significant auto market where it could make a real impact—Mexico. In Mexico, the car is named the BYD Dolphin Mini. Currently, BYD has stated that the car is not heading to the US or Canada, but future plans may change.

The 5-door compact electric hatchback is priced at an astonishingly low MXN$358,800 ($21,000) and offers a range of 190 miles (305 km) on a full charge. For a slightly higher price of MXN$398,800 ($23,000), you can opt for the BYD Dolphin Mini Plus with a range of 252 miles (405 km). The Dolphin Mini Plus also includes wireless phone charging and eight airbags instead of six.

One notable feature of these cars is their use of BYD’s Blade batteries, which utilize lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry, allowing them to be fully charged without concerns about battery degradation.

According to Wards Auto, Mexican law requires sticker prices to include a 16% federal value-added tax. Additionally, there are currently no subsidies for BEVs in Mexico, despite being imported tariff-free.

Although the BYD Dolphin Mini lacks the luxury and features of the new Li MEGA, it offers everything an average person needs, stylish design, all at an incredibly affordable price. This car is expected to be a huge success, not only in Mexico but potentially in the US market in the future.

“With sharp exterior lines reminiscent of a sportier version of a Honda Fit, the Dolphin Mini is set to compete not only with internal combustion engine rivals like the Suzuki Swift or Mazda 2 but also with other BEVs. At 149 inches (3,780 mm) in length, it is 3.2 inches (80 mm) shorter than a 3-door Mini Cooper. BYD states that the Dolphin Mini is the most affordable BEV in Mexico, with China’s JAC advertising its 10X hatchback for MXN$439,000 ($25,720), which is also the list price of the electric version of the Renault Kwid.” This significant price difference from the second cheapest electric car on the market is sure to create ripples in the industry.

“The build quality is solid, and the doors have a substantial feel not commonly found in economy hatchbacks. The distinctive Seagull-inspired two-toned dashboard is practical and straightforward, featuring a dashboard-mounted transmission toggle-switch that is easy to use. The 10.1-inch (26-cm) screen adjusts automatically for vertical or horizontal viewing and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto. The car utilizes a traditional two-pedal brake/accelerator system, eliminating the need to readjust driving reflexes.”

BYD Mexico’s General Director, Jorge Vallejo, aims to sell 50,000 units of the BYD Dolphin Mini in Mexico in 2024. The future prospects beyond Mexico are yet to be determined.

What are your predictions for the success of the Dolphin Mini in Mexico in 2024 and beyond?