Facelifted BYD Dolphin with new powertrain to be built in EU

The facelifted version of the popular BYD Dolphin hatchback has leaked. According to registration details from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the design introduces minor tweaks, but there will be a new powertrain option. Three motor configurations, including a new 130 kW (174 hp) variant, are slated for commercialization.

These changes will form part of BYD’s broader strategy to strengthen its foothold in Europe. The Dolphin and Atto 3 production is scheduled to begin at its upcoming Hungarian plant in 2025.

Subtle design changes

The facelifted Dolphin maintains its compact dimensions, but several key design updates make it stand out more. The front fascia now features sharper headlamps and redesigned air intakes, making the car look a tad more aggressive. The side profile remains unchanged, but the rear has a different branding. BYD has replaced its “Build Your Dreams” emblem with a sleek “BYD” logo on the taillight bar.

Other rear-end modifications include updated taillight designs and a revised lower bumper section. The Dolphin’s dimensions are now 4,280 mm (length), 1,770 mm (width), and 1,570 mm (height), with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm — only slightly larger than the current model.

More powertrain options

One of the most significant upgrades is the expanded range of electric motors. The previous Dolphin was offered in two configurations: a 70 kW (94 hp) model with a 44.5 kWh battery (420 km range) and a 150 kW (201 hp) version with a 60.5 kWh battery (520 km range).

The facelift introduces a new intermediate option with a 130 kW (174 hp) motor, offering customers a middle ground between affordability and performance. All versions will continue to use BYD’s proprietary Blade battery packs built around LFP chemistry (lithium/iron/phosphate).

It is unlikely that the facelifted Dolphin will receive the upgraded 2.0 version of the Blade battery, which slashes costs by 15%, as these are reserved for the carmaker’s next-generation electric vehicles.

Meanwhile, BYD’s European ambitions are further taking shape as the Dolphin and Atto 3 SUV production is set to begin at its new factory in Hungary at the end of 2025. In an interview, Stella Li, BYD’s Head of Europe, confirmed that the Dolphin and Atto 3 would be the first two models produced at the facility. A third model, the Atto 2, will follow, with plans to introduce a fourth model — a European version of BYD’s Seagull — later.

Lower prices for Europe?

The Hungary plant will be capable of producing up to twelve models simultaneously, giving BYD the flexibility to respond to European market demands. By manufacturing in Europe, BYD aims to reduce production costs, avoid potential tariffs, and accelerate deliveries to European customers.

“Once production ramps up, BYD plans to switch to European-built vehicles and fully end imports from China,” said Stella Li. The company will follow a strategy similar to that of its Asian rivals, Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota, which operate a mix of local production and imports.

Given BYD’s plan to produce the Dolphin locally in Hungary, the current price in Belgium, starting at 29,000 euros, could decrease. By eliminating shipping costs and reducing import taxes, more competitive prices could undercut rivals like Volkswagen’s ID.2 or the Renault 5 E-Tech, aiming at 25,000 euros.