The BYD Dolphin Cargo e-Van will be the Chinese manufacturer's first LCV in the UK, after appearing at the CV Show last month
BYD has officially entered the UK small electric van market with the launch of the Dolphin Cargo e-Van, a car-derived commercial vehicle offering up to 347 miles of urban driving range.
The new model made an early appearance at the CV Show in Birmingham in April, where BYD used the vehicle to test customer reaction ahead of its official UK launch. Images of the potential new van were circulated ahead of the show with the words "Concept LCV" written on its side.
Based on the BYD Dolphin hatchback, the compact LCV is converted in the UK, with the rear seats removed and a full metal bulkhead installed behind the front row. The conversion creates 1,093 litres of load space, including a 47-litre underfloor compartment.
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BYD claims the Dolphin Cargo e-Van delivers a class-leading range figure for a small electric commercial vehicle, with up to 265 miles combined WLTP range from its 60.4kWh battery. Power comes from a 204PS electric motor, while an optional 70mph speed limiter is available for fleet customers.
Load dimensions include a maximum load length of 1,250mm and a minimum width of 1,018mm between the wheel arches. Overall vehicle length is 4,290mm.
The load area features a phenolic ply-lined flat floor, modular subframe, reinforced door cards and bumper protection film. Operators can also specify rear window panel options for additional security.
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The Dolphin Cargo e-Van uses BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which is based on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry. BYD said the cobalt-free battery is designed to improve durability, safety and resistance to temperature extremes.
Specification is based on the passenger car’s Comfort trim level and includes Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, a heat pump, heated seats and steering wheel, a 360-degree camera and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as standard.
BYD said it can also support customers with bespoke fleet modifications including warning beacons, reversing alarms, storage systems and vehicle livery.
The Dolphin Cargo e-Van is available to order now through participating UK BYD retailers, priced from £29,358 excluding VAT.
