BYD now offers SA’s most affordable plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicles
Posted: 08 Jan 2026
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Author: Reuben van Niekerk
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3min read
BYD have big plans for South Africa including a roll out of between two and three hundred EV chargers nationwide, strengthening the charging ecosystem and making electric mobility more accessible to every South African.
BYD have big plans for South Africa including a roll out of between two and three hundred EV chargers nationwide, strengthening the charging ecosystem and making electric mobility more accessible to every South African.
The two newest additions to BYD’s local offering represent the most affordable models in the plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicle segments as BYD looks to make new energy vehicles more accessible to South Africans.
BYD’s model range now includes three Super Plug-in Hybrid models namely the Sealion 5 DM-I, Sealion 6 DM-I and Shark 6 DMO while the fully electric range comprises the Dolphin, Dolphin Surf, Atto 3, Seal and Sealion 7.
The BYD Sealion 5
BYD have continued their product rollout with the launch of the Sealion 5, which claims the title of SA’s most affordable plug-in hybrid.
The Sealion 5 is powered by BYD’s electric-first DMI-I (Dual-Mode Intelligent) hybrid platform which consists of a normally aspirated 1.5-litre engine which produces 72kW and 122Nm, while the electric motor adds 145kW and 300Nm, resulting in a total system output of 156kW. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission sends power to the front wheels.
A 12.96kWh battery offers a pure electric driving range of 52km, which does make it possible to commute in urban environments emission free.
Styling is modern, sleek and monolithic and in line with that of the rest of the BYD family. LED headlights, daytime running lights and tail lights reinforce the modern look.
Inside, the Sealion 5 combines practicality with intelligent technology, boasting a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, intelligent voice control, keyless entry and wireless charging that guarantees a modern driving experience, while family-focused touches such as a spacious second row, generous boot, electric tailgate and 60:40 split-folding rear seats support everyday utility. The interior is extremely spacious both upfront and in the rear.
Pricing starts at R499 900 for the BYD Sealion 5 Comfort while the BYD Sealion 5 Dynamic sells for R569 900.
BYD Dolphin Surf
Earlier in 2025 BYD made waves when they launched the Dolphin Surf, the most affordable fully electric car in South Africa, which represented a significant milestone in making electric mobility accessible to more South African motorists.
With a stylish design, inherent hatchback practicality and pricing that is aimed at the mass market it is sure to appeal to motorists looking to make the switch to a fully electric city runabout.
The Dolphin Surf utilises the brands groundbreaking blade battery and e-Platform 3.0 which incorporates high levels of safety, efficiency and performance.
Dynamic derivatives are fitted with a 38.8 kWh Blade battery, that offers 55kW of power and a WLTP range of 295km. It supports DC charging of up to 40kW, allowing for a 30-80% charge in just 30 minutes.
Comfort derivatives are equipped with a 30-kWh Blade battery paired with a 55kW front-wheel-drive motor that offers a combined WLTP range of 232km and a maximum DC charging rate of 30kW.
Pricing starts at R339 900 for the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort while the BYD Dolphin Surf Dynamic retails for R389 900.
Big plans for South Africa
BYD have big plans for South Africa including a roll out of between two and three hundred EV chargers nationwide, strengthening the charging ecosystem and making electric mobility more accessible to every South African.