BYD Auto South Africa is thrilled to announce that its innovative Dolphin Surf and Shark 6 models have been nominated for the prestigious 2026 South African Car of the Year Awards.
The nominations come fresh off the back of BYD’s massively successful launch of the Sealion 5, which has drawn national attention for its blend of performance, safety, and next-generation electric innovation. With demand surging across the country and consumers increasingly embracing new energy vehicles (NEVs), BYD has quickly distinguished itself as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing and most disruptive automotive brands.
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In just a short time, BYD has made major waves in South Africa, expanding from a newcomer to a formidable player since arriving in the country in 2023. The company’s focus on affordable, sustainable NEVs has resonated with local consumers, driving record sales and positioning BYD as a leader in the shift toward electric and hybrid mobility amid South Africa’s evolving energy landscape.
Why the BYD Shark 6 and BYD Dolphin Surf Are Turning Heads
BYD’s Shark 6, a super-hybrid that redefines versatility for adventure-seekers and professionals alike. Equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo hybrid engine paired with the Blade Battery, it boasts an impressive 321 kW of power and robust torque for towing and off-road capabilities. As South Africa’s first plug-in hybrid pickup in its class, the Shark offers exceptional fuel efficiency, low ownership costs, and eco-friendly performance without compromising on rugged utility. Its innovative design includes sustainable materials and intelligent features like hyper-local navigation, making it a pioneer in blending traditional bakkie toughness with modern electrification, perfect for South Africa’s diverse terrains from urban streets to rural farms.
Meanwhile, the Dolphin Surf, BYD’s compact electric hatchback, stands out as a game-changer for urban commuters with its blend of efficiency, safety, and smart technology. Powered by BYD’s ultra-safe Blade Battery (38.88 kWh capacity), it delivers a driving range of up to 295 km on a single charge, with fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Key specs include 75 HP of power, 135 Nm of torque, a 0-50 km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds, and a top speed of 130 km/h. Built on the e-Platform 3.0, it features advanced safety systems like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), and Auto Hold. Its spacious interior offers a boot capacity of 316 litres (expandable to 1,037 litres), making it ideal for city living. Priced accessibly, the Dolphin Surf democratises EV ownership in South Africa, reducing running costs and emissions while appealing to tech-savvy drivers with features like voice search optimisation in multiple local languages.
These models build directly on the momentum of the Sealion 5, BYD’s plug-in hybrid SUV that launched in early December 2025 as the country’s most affordable PHEV, starting at R499,900. With a five-year/100,000 km warranty and class-leading specs like seamless hybrid transitions and advanced driver assistance, the Sealion 5 has already shaken up the hybrid market, attracting widespread acclaim for its value and performance.
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“These nominations are a tremendous honour for BYD and a clear sign of how quickly South Africans are embracing the future of mobility,” said Steve Chang, Managing Director of BYD Auto South Africa. “Coming off the incredible reception to the Sealion 5, we’re proud to be transforming the local automotive scene with vehicles that offer cutting-edge technology, affordability, and environmental benefits. Both the Dolphin Surf and the Shark represent BYD’s commitment to innovation, safety, and accessible electric technology. Their recognition at the Car of the Year Awards shows that South Africa is ready for smarter, cleaner, and more advanced vehicles, and we are proud to help lead that transition.”
BYD’s rapid growth in South Africa reflects its global leadership in new energy vehicles, now customised for local roads and lifestyles, delivering affordable, innovative mobility solutions that reduce emissions and fuel costs for everyday drivers. These nominations for the Dolphin Surf and Shark not only celebrate BYD’s engineering excellence but also highlight the brand’s transformative impact on the local automotive industry, accelerating the adoption of sustainable transport and empowering communities with reliable, eco-friendly options tailored to South Africa’s unique needs.