BYD Dolphin G DM-i launches in UK at £24,000 as cheapest plug-in hybrid supermini
By Eve
BYD has unveiled the Dolphin G DM-i plug-in hybrid at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed, priced from £24,000 and positioned against the Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris and MG3 Hybrid+. The supermini is the first BYD model built in Europe for Europe and uses the Super Hybrid DM-i system pairing a 1.5 litre petrol engine with two electric motors. The entry-level Active variant features a 7.4 kWh Blade battery offering 24.8 miles of electric-only range, a combined range of 633 miles and 108.6 mpg, with standard equipment including LED headlights, adaptive cruise control and a 10.1 inch central display.
Why it matters: The arrival of Europe's cheapest PHEV supermini signals intensifying competition in the small car segment and may influence fleet procurement strategies for urban delivery and light commercial applications. BYD's European manufacturing footprint also positions the brand to compete more directly for public sector and commercial contracts requiring local content or shorter supply chains.