A heavily camouflaged prototype believed to be the all-new 2026 BYD Dolphin was spotted testing on public roads in China, hinting at major upgrades for the compact electric hatchback. The current Dolphin remains China’s top-selling compact EV, with 21,888 units sold in September. The next-generation model appears set for an extensive mechanical overhaul.
According to a Chinese automotive source, the new Dolphin will likely adopt BYD’s CTB (cell-to-body) battery integration technology, along with a revised rear suspension, possibly a four-link or even five-link setup. Reports also suggest the addition of a rear-wheel-drive configuration, a front trunk, and higher-output motors paired with an enlarged battery pack. Industry insiders expect long-range rear-wheel-drive and hybrid versions to debut in the second quarter of 2026.
Preliminary data indicate that the top-spec 2026 Dolphin could exceed 520 km CLTC range, powered by BYD’s Blade Battery 2.0 with improved cold-weather endurance, retaining 82% capacity at –30°C.
The interior is likely to feature a simplified dashboard with dual-tone seats and a large floating central touchscreen. It may include DiLink 5.0 powered by the Qualcomm 8295 chip, offering 0.8-second voice response and optional L2+ driver assistance with highway NOA (Navigation on Autopilot).
The exterior design is speculated to continue the brand’s “Ocean Aesthetics” language, with slimmer headlights, smaller air intakes, and a refined rear section featuring full-width taillights. The car’s dimensions remain similar to the current model at 4,280 mm in length, 1,770 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a 2,700 mm wheelbase.
Launch timing is expected between June and August 2026, with pricing likely to remain between 99,800 and 129,800 yuan (approximately 14,000 to 18,200 USD). The current 2025 Dolphin, launched earlier this year, offers up to 520 km range and starts at the same entry price.
