Last month, a dazzling drone display above Rome’s Olympic Stadium unveiled BYD’s Dolphin Surf, signaling the Chinese automaker’s aggressive push into Europe’s electric vehicle (EV) market. The glowing orbs formed the car’s silhouette against iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, pitching the hatchback as a modern Fiat 500—affordable, stylish, and electric. With competitive pricing and smart technology, BYD aims to capture a market where European rivals struggle to deliver budget-friendly EVs, according to Automotive News Europe.

Affordable EVs for the Masses

The Dolphin Surf, priced at $25,000 (£18,650) in the U.K.’s Active trim, undercuts competitors like the Renault 5 E-Tech and Citroen e-C3. Despite its 137-mile (220-kilometer) range, it offers premium features like a rotating infotainment screen, rear parking camera, and adaptive cruise control—standard even in base models.

"They can make the change to EVs,” said BYD executive vice president Stella Li at the Rome launch, emphasizing accessibility. “At the same time, they are driving a car that is not only accessible, it’s intelligent, high-tech fun.” This strategy targets younger buyers and families seeking value without sacrificing tech.

Byd’s Dolphin Surf Charges Europe’s Ev Market With Bold Pricing And Tech

Strategic Expansion and Local Expertise

BYD’s European sales nearly quadrupled in early 2025, with 12,000 vehicles sold in the U.K. alone, up from 1,611 the prior year, per Dataforce. The company shifted from premium models to affordable options like the Dolphin Surf and Seal U, a midsize SUV priced $8,070 (£6,000) below an Audi A3 hybrid.

"The clincher is that the Seal U offers all the add-ons—cruise control, 360 camera, head-up display—that other manufacturers would usually nickel and dime you for,” said Bob Dalgliesh reportedly, a Scottish buyer.

BYD also hired European executives like Maria Grazia Davino, ex-Stellantis U.K. head, to revamp its German dealer network, boosting its market agility.

Industry Disruption and Challenges

BYD’s $20 billion investment, including a new factory in Szeged, Hungary, aims to localize production and leverage China’s Belt and Road logistics. This move reassures dealers and buyers of long-term support, critical in a $576 billion (€500 billion) market where EVs remain pricier than in China.

"If you are winning here, it means you are super good in every angle,” Li said, underscoring Europe’s importance.

However, thin margins, reliance on plug-in hybrids amid regulatory scrutiny, and low brand recognition pose risks. European giants like Volkswagen and Stellantis retain loyal bases and deep ties to fleets, which BYD must penetrate.

A High-Stakes Bet

BYD’s rapid growth—200% or more in Germany, France, and Italy—capitalizes on Tesla’s sales dip and leadership changes at Renault and Stellantis. Sponsoring UEFA Euro 2024 and controlling its import operations further amplify its presence. Yet, aggressive pricing has sparked criticism in China, and overexpansion could strain finances if sales falter.

"If we decide to do something, we put all our resources behind it,” Li told Bloomberg.

With 120,000 R&D staff and a seven-model lineup displayed in 1,290-square-foot (120-square-meter) showrooms, BYD is betting big on becoming a European automotive titan.

Photos courtesy of BYD