BYD Dolphin Update Moves Closer To Australia

The BYD Dolphin has quietly become one of Australia’s most important entry level EVs, and now an updated version is edging closer to a local launch.

BYD’s small hatch has recently been overshadowed by the arrival of the even cheaper Atto 1, yet the brand says the Dolphin story is far from over.

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Australia Might Get The Updated Dolphin Next Year

At the local reveal of the Atto 1 and Atto 2, BYD Australia’s Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins hinted that the Dolphin is firmly in the company’s future plans. When asked directly about the refreshed model now on sale in China, he said the brand is evaluating everything and expects to share more news next year. He described a product strategy that now touches every segment and includes a growing interest in fleet opportunities.

That sets up an interesting scenario. The Dolphin starts at twenty nine thousand nine hundred ninety dollars before on road costs, but it suddenly sits between the Atto 1 and Atto 2, and only a short hop below the Atto 3. Its position in the range is a little awkward, yet sales have surged this year thanks to the affordable Essential variant.

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What The Updated Dolphin Brings

The version sold in China recently received a noticeable lift with larger screens and fresh exterior styling. If BYD keeps that specification for Australia, shoppers can expect a more modern cabin and a cleaner design that aligns with the brand’s latest look.

Behind the scenes, though, an even bigger shift is brewing. A brand new generation of Dolphin has been spotted in China wearing sleeker proportions and less of the rounded silhouette that defined the first generation. It appears lower, longer and more athletic, and could be designed to solve the unusual packaging of the current model which needed a stretched nose to meet global crash standards.

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A Very Different Dolphin May Arrive In 2026

Early reports suggest the next generation could introduce a plug in hybrid option and possibly switch from front wheel drive to rear wheel drive. It may also bring stronger motors and larger battery choices that exceed the current Australian specification of 44.9 kWh and 60.5 kWh packs. If true, that would move the Dolphin into a new performance and range bracket.

Spy shots show extensive changes but BYD has not confirmed whether this version sits on a new platform. The company has not yet been seen testing either the facelifted model or the next generation car on Australian roads, which means timing is still uncertain.

Why It Takes Time For BYD Models To Arrive Here

Historically it has taken roughly two years for BYD models launched in China to reach Australia, usually with a European debut in between. That timeline may accelerate as the Australian operation receives what Collins describes as strong support from the Chinese headquarters.

He highlighted a recent visit from the global chairman and senior leadership team who spent time mapping out market opportunities and potential products for Australia.