With global sales of 4.27 million cars in 2024, China’s BYD – it stands for ‘Build Your Dreams’ – is the third largest automotive brand in the world. It’s also become a big player in the UK, increasing its volume by 658 percent to around 8,700 cars in 2024 – the fastest growth of any car company.
Below are some of the questions and answers for anyone thinking of buying a BYD electric car. Got any additional queries? Let us know in the comments and we will endeavour to help.
Buying an electric BYD
What fully electric cars does BYD sell?
BYD offers four fully electric cars in the UK: Dolphin, Atto 3, Seal and Sealion 7.
Which BYD electric cars are coming soon?
The BYD Atto 2 compact SUV will arrive in the summer of 2025. Slotting in below the Atto 3, it will feature a 50kWh battery that BYD says can deliver up to 260 miles from a single charge.
BYD is also expected to launch the Seagull supermini as its most affordable electric car in Europe. Designed to take on the Dacia Spring, the Seagull will be offered with a choice of batteries and offer up to 250 miles of range.
What is BYD’s electric car brand called?
As a company focused on electrification, BYD doesn’t have a separate electric sub-brand. Its cars are mostly named after marine animals and birds, like Dolphin, Seal and Seagull.
What is the warranty on a BYD electric car battery?
BYD electric car batteries are covered for eight years or 125,000 miles, whichever comes first. The cars are covered for six years or 93,750 miles.
Where can you buy a BYD electric car?
You can buy a new BYD electric car from your nearest BYD dealer.
How much do BYD electric cars cost?
With prices starting from around £26,500, the BYD Dolphin is the most affordable electric car in the range. Next up is the BYD Atto 3, which costs upwards of £37,500, while Seal prices start from £45,000. Finally, the Sealion 7 costs between £47,000 and £59,000, depending on spec.
Charging a BYD electric car
What type of plug do BYD EVs use?
BYD electric cars use a CCS (Combo Rapid Charge) and seven-pin Type 2 plug.
What charging equipment comes as standard with a BYD electric car?
BYD electric cars typically come with a Type 2 charging cable and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) adapter, which allows the car’s battery to power external devices.
Can BYD electric cars use rapid chargers?
Yes, all BYD electric cars can use rapid chargers, although the maximum charging speed will vary depending on the model. For example, the Atto 3 has a maximum charge rate of 88kW, while the Seal can charge at speeds of up to 150kW.
While standard versions of the Sealion 7 also max out at 150kW, the Excellence AWD model peaks at 230kW.
Can BYD electric cars use Ionity chargers?
Yes, all BYD electric cars can use the Ionity ultra-rapid charging network.
Where is the charging point located on a BYD electric car?
The charging point on the Dolphin and Atto 3 is located on the driver’s side front wing, above the wheel. On the Seal and Sealion 7, it can be found on the driver’s side rear wing, above the rear wheel – where you’d expect to find a filler cap on a petrol or diesel car.
Which charge partner does BYD work with?
BYD works with Shell Recharge.
What is BYD’s wallbox called?
BYD doesn’t offer its own home-charging wallbox, so you will need to buy a third-party device from the likes of Pod Point or Ohme.
Do you get a free wallbox when you buy a new BYD electric car?
No, you must purchase a wallbox separately – assuming you have the ability to charge at home.
What is the BYD charging service?
BYD works with Shell Recharge to offer access to 800,000 charging points across Europe. Discounted charging rates are available with no subscription fee.
Do BYD electric cars have an on-board DC charger?
All BYD electric cars are fitted with either a 7kW or 11kW on-board charger.
What is the maximum charging speed of a BYD electric car?
The maximum charging speed of a BYD electric car depends on the model and battery size. Here are the current speeds:
BYD Dolphin: 88kW
BYD Atto 3: 88kW
BYD Seal: 150kW
BYD Sealion 7: 150kW-230kW
Driving an electric BYD
What is the range of a BYD electric car?
BYD Dolphin: 265 miles
BYD Atto 3: 260 miles
BYD Seal: 353 miles
BYD Sealion 7: 312 miles
These figures are the maximum for each model.
What is the BYD electric car smartphone app called?
BYD’s smartphone app is called BYD Auto. Once connected to the car, the app will show the expected range, cabin temperature and tyre pressures.
It’s also possible to control the heated seats, heated seats, door locks, windows and sunroof remotely from your phone.
How many BYD dealers are there and do they offer free charging for owners?
There are around 60 BYD dealers in the UK, none of which offer free charging for owners.
Does BYD sat-nav show charging point locations and availability?
Yes, it’s possible to pinpoint charging point locations and check availability via the Shell Recharge app and BYD’s infotainment system.
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