BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
BYD has launched the BYD Dolphin Surf in South Africa, marking a significant milestone in making electric mobility more accessible to everyday drivers across the country.
What is it?
BYD claims the small but practical, fully electric Surf, will prove that electric vehicles can be both affordable and aspirational. Two models, the Dynamic and the Comfort, will be available.
Power:
At the heart of the Dolphin Surf is BYD’s Blade Battery and e-Platform 3.0, which deliver unmatched levels of safety, efficiency and performance, the manufacturer claims.
The Dynamic model is equipped with a 38.8kWh Blade Battery, offering a WLTP combined range of 295km. It delivers 55kW to the front wheels and supports DC charging up to 40kW, allowing for a 30-80% charge in just 30 minutes.
The Comfort model features a 30kWh Blade Battery with a WLTP combined range of 232km, powered by a 55kW front-wheel-drive motor with a maximum DC charging rate of 30kW.
The BYD Dolphin is more than just a car; it's a mobile energy source. The Vehicle-to-Load (VtoL) function allows users to "charge up the party", using the car's battery to power external devices. Each vehicle includes a 7kW Home Charger Wall Box, a 3-7 Charger, and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) socket, ensuring a seamless charging experience from day one.
Interior:
The interior features a 10.1-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital instrument panel and voice control activated by a simple "Hi, BYD". For added convenience, the cabin includes a 15W wireless charging pad and a built-in karaoke function.
Exterior:
The Dolphin Surf's exterior design is both playful and sporty, featuring a sleek roof with an integrated rear spoiler and full-width LED tail lights. The kick design on the side and the sculptured lines, all contribute to a modern look.
Both models are front-wheel drive and ride on 16-inch steel wheels.
Warranty:
BYD is backing the Dolphin Surf with a robust warranty and service package: a 3-year/60 000km Service Plan, a 3-year/100 000km Complete Vehicle Warranty, and an 8-year/200 000km Power Battery Warranty.
Prices:
BYD Dolphin Surf Dynamic (R389 900) and the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort (R339 900).
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
Retail new vehicle sales continue to surge in South Africa despite global and regional conflicts, local floods and droughts.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout performance in March 2026, extending its domestic growth trajectory to the strongest level seen in nearly two decades.
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