Unique! The Chinese launched a car model that no longer exists in Europe » It seems like a rival for Dacia, but the reality is different

At first glance, the 4.16-meter Chinese hatchback can be associated with models such as Dacia Sandero or Renault Clio, two of the best-selling cars on the continent. In reality, however, the Dolphin G DM-i plays in a category almost of its own.

The reason is simple: the Chinese model is currently the only subcompact hatchback with a plug-in hybrid propulsion system available on the European market, according to an analysis carried out by journalist Daniel Popescu on LinkedIn. In a segment dominated by gasoline engines, mild-hybrid systems or, more rarely, full-hybrid, BYD proposes a combination between a 1.5-liter thermal engine and a 163 HP electric one.

PHOTO. What does the new BYD Dolphin model look like launched in Romania

The assembly develops up to 212 HP, and the purely electric range can reach 105 kilometers. With the battery charged and the tank full, the manufacturer announces a total autonomy of up to 1,040 kilometers.

Although it has the dimensions of a small class car, the Dolphin G DM-i offers a trunk with a volume between 425 and 1,225 litersfigures that place it above many of its direct rivals in the segment.

The Active version starts at 21,990 euros with VAT included, while the Sport version reaches 28,170 euros. BYD offers a warranty of 6 years or 150,000 kilometers for the car and 8 years or 250,000 kilometers for the battery.

Although the dimensions bring it close to the Dacia Sandero, the comparison largely stops there. The target audience, the technology and the level of electrification are different. Moreover, the lack of direct rivals explains why the Dolphin G DM has been attracting attention since its launch.

European manufacturers have so far avoided plug-in hybrid systems on small class hatchbacks, mainly due to high costs. Traditionally, such a system would have pushed the final price too high for ordinary customers of the segment.

However, BYD chose to take this risk. The company produces exclusively electric and plug-in hybrid models, and the presence in such an important segment for the European market was essential. Instead of abandoning this category entirely, the Chinese based in Shenzhen preferred to propose a different alternative, even if more sophisticated and expensive than conventional hatchbacks.

Thus, the Dolphin G DM-i does not necessarily compete directly with the Dacia Sanderobut to offer an option that, until now, European buyers simply did not have: a small-class hatchback with plug-in hybrid technology and electric range comparable to that of much larger and more expensive models.