In 2023 and early 2024, even the more affordable options such as the older GWM Ora and base BYD Dolphin sat far above what many budget buyers could afford.

That picture has changed quickly with Geely Auto E2 Aspire just launched at R339 900, competing against the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort at R341 900.

In practical terms, the entry point for a new full EV has fallen by roughly 40 to 50 percent compared with the cheapest mainstream options on sale about two years ago, according to platforms like Cars.co.za.

The big driver of cheaper EVs has been the arrival of smaller Chinese built hatchbacks and city cars. In South Africa, the EV and NEV uptake is growing, but full EVs is still small while hybrid vehicles currently are the preferred choice when it comes to new energy vehicle (NEVs).

During 2024 EV sales was roughly 1 257 units, while 13.4% down in 2025 EV sales with 1 088 units. The expectation is that with cheaper prices EVs and the looming energy crisis due to the instability in the Middle east, the uptake could be higher in the future.

Geely E2: now the cheapest

The Geely E2 has taken the lead by the narrowest of margins. Its R339 900 starting price makes it South Africa’s cheapest new electric passenger car.

Its biggest advantage over the BYD is value on paper. The E2 offers a larger 39.4 kWh battery, stronger 85 kW motor and a 325 km WLTP claimed range. It also supports faster DC charging at up to 70 kW, which should make longer trips less frustrating.

Geely’s South African launch package also includes a 4 year or 150 000km vehicle warranty, an 8 year or 200 000km battery warranty, a 3 year or 200 000km service plan.

BYD Dolphin Surf: still highly competitive

The BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort remains one of the strongest value propositions in the market despite losing the title.

At R341 900, it is only R2 000 more expensive than the Geely. BYD’s big selling point is its Blade Battery, which has built a strong reputation for durability and safety.

The entry level Comfort uses a smaller 30.1 kWh battery and supports up to 30 kW DC charging. BYD says 30 to 80 percent can be done in about 30 minutes under ideal conditions. That makes it slightly slower to charge and shorter ranged than the Geely, but it still works well as a city car.

The Surf range boasts a 3 years or 100 000km vehicle warranty, 8 years or 200 000km battery warranty and a 3 years or 60 000km service plan.