BYD has unveiled the Dolphin Cargo e-Van, which the manufacturer describes as a versatile and flexible compact vehicle for commercial fleets.
Based on the passenger car Dolphin hatchback, the conversion into a light commercial vehicle (LCV) is carried out in the UK, ensuring the vehicle is tailored to meet the specific requirements of British operators.
The changes involve permanently removing the rear seats and installing a full metal bulkhead behind the front seats, freeing up a load capacity of 1,093 litres – including a 47-litre underfloor storage space.
It is powered by a 204PS electric motor paired with a 60.4kWh battery, and offers a range of up to 347 miles in urban driving and 265 miles combined.
An optional 70 mph speed limiter is also available to support fleet optimisation and energy management.
At the heart of the vehicle is BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry.
Completely free from cobalt, the Blade Battery is designed to deliver enhanced durability, improved safety and greater resistance to extreme temperatures compared with conventional battery technologies.
The Dolphin Cargo e-Van’s specification is based on the Dolphin Comfort trim level, and as such its equipment levels go above and beyond the technology many commercial buyers will expect.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology enables the new car-derived van to supply power directly to external equipment, supporting applications such as mobile servicing, site maintenance, portable lighting and tool charging without requiring additional power sources.
The phenolic ply-trimmed flat load floor area – complete with additional underfloor storage and modular subframe – is complemented by hardwearing door cards and a bumper protection film to offer robustness for a range of businesses.
