Chinese brand BYD plans to install between 200 and 300 public charging stations by the end of 2026 as the world’s biggest new-energy vehicle maker ramps up its product offering in South Africa.

BYD’s executive vice president, Stella Li, who recently visited South Africa,  doubled down on the company’s investment in the country. However, she stopped short of providing the figure for how much money the company will plug into its local operations.

The Chinese firm aims to have between 30 and 35 dealerships by the end of next year. It currently has 13 and launched its first EV in South Africa, the Atto 3, in June 2023, Reuters reported.

Plug-In Hybrid Double-Cab Bakkie and SUVs Lead the Charge for BYD

Fast forward to 2025, and the Chinese EV giant has seen its line-up swell with the addition of half a dozen new models.

The new models include the electric Dolphin, Dolphin Surf, Seal, and Sealion 7, the plug-in hybrid models, Sealion 6 and Shark 6. The latter is a double-cab bakkie that uses a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a combined output of over 320kW and 650Nm of torque.

The Shark 6 utilizes a 29.58kWh battery, and BYD claims an electric range of up to 85km.

In late November 2025, the company announced it would offer a more affordable plug-in hybrid SUV to the market. The Sealion 5 slots in below the Sealion 6 and Sealion 7, and is set to be the most affordable plug-in hybrid SUV available in South Africa.

The new model will certainly undercut the Sealion 6, which commands a price tag of R639,900.

Pricing for the Sealion 5 has yet to be confirmed; however, reports suggest it will cost less than the newly launched Geely E5 EM-i Aspire, which sells for R599,999 and is the cheapest plug-in hybrid on sale.

“BYD is not just a car manufacturer. We’re a technology company focused on creating a cleaner, smarter future. The Sea Lion 5 represents how innovation can meet real South African needs, combining energy efficiency, advanced safety, and everyday utility,” says Nomonde Kweyi, Marketing Director, BYD Auto South Africa.

Dolphin Surf, SA’s most affordable EV

One of BYD’s goals is to accelerate South African’s transition to electric mobility. In September, they made a move that could supercharge the company to reach that target.

The Dolphin Surf was launched as South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle, priced at R339,900. It utilises a single electric motor on the front axle, producing 55kW and 135 Nm of torque.

The cheaper Comfort derivative features a 30 kWh battery, offering a range of around 230km. The top-spec Dynamic model benefits from a 38.8 kWh battery, increasing the claimed range to 295km. The carmaker says the Dynamic model can be recharged from 30% to 80% in about half an hour and can utilise 40 kW DC charging.

I recently spent a week evaluating the Dolphin Surf Dynamic model, priced at R389,900. It felt well-built and offered a good ride quality. Due to its meagre 55kW, it lacks pace off the line but provides enough oomph to keep up with traffic in urban areas. I noticed a top speed of around 104km/h, although that’s when the electric motor uses the most energy.

It is fitted with LED headlights and comfortable seats and was awarded a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The interior follows a minimalist approach with a small instrument cluster ahead of the driver and a larger touchscreen for the infotainment system.

I noticed several Dolphin Surf models on the road during my week-long test, and I have no doubt it will become more popular, particularly because BYD offers the Dolphin Surf with an eight-year or 200,000km battery warranty and a three-year vehicle warranty and service plan.

“BYD's presence in South Africa represents our commitment to being more than an automotive brand — we are a technology company delivering comprehensive new energy solutions for this market,” said Nomonde Kweyi, Marketing Director, BYD South Africa, MEA Region.

2026 is bound to be a big year for the world’s largest EV company, and domination of South Africa’s burgeoning new energy vehicle market is firmly within its sights.