Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer out of reach for South African buyers. As of 2026, several budget-friendly models have entered the market, offering competitive pricing and practical features. The BYD Dolphin Surf, priced at R339,900, now holds the title of the most affordable EV in the country. Other options, like the Dayun S5 and Dongfeng Box E1 330, provide longer ranges and additional features at slightly higher price points. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top five affordable EVs:
- BYD Dolphin Surf: Starts at R339,900; range of 232–295 km; compact with urban-focused features.
- Dayun S5: Priced at R399,900; range of 330 km; ideal for city driving but limited power.
- Dongfeng Box E1 330: Costs R459,000; range of 330–430 km; offers more advanced features.
- BYD Dolphin: Starts at R539,900; range of 340 km; larger battery and better performance.
- GWM Ora 03: Begins at R686,950; range of 310–420 km; the most powerful option in this lineup.
Key Takeaway: The South African EV market now caters to various budgets and needs, from entry-level urban models to performance-focused vehicles. With prices starting under R340,000, EVs are becoming a realistic alternative to petrol cars like the VW Polo Vivo. Expect lower running costs, reduced maintenance, and long battery warranties across all models.
Top 5 Most Affordable EVs in South Africa 2026: Price, Range & Performance Comparison
I Drove the BYD Dolphin Surf and Found the CHEAPEST EV in SA
1. BYD Dolphin Surf
The BYD Dolphin Surf made its debut in September 2025, becoming South Africa’s most budget-friendly electric vehicle (EV). It’s priced nearly R60,000 less than its closest competitor. Ming Xing, BYD South Africa’s Brand and Marketing Manager, highlighted the importance of this launch:
"The BYD Dolphin Surf represents a pivotal moment for electric mobility in South Africa. We are bringing a truly affordable and well-equipped urban electric vehicle to the mass market."
This compact EV, comparable in size to a MINI Cooper, comes in two trims: the Comfort at R339,900 and the Dynamic at R389,900. Despite its size, it packs features typically found in more expensive EVs, such as a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which can power external devices during outages. Below are the key specs that make the Dolphin Surf a standout option for city drivers.
Price (ZAR)
The Comfort version starts at R339,900, and the Dynamic model is priced at R389,900. Both trims come with a 7 kW home wallbox charger, a 3-year/60,000 km service plan, a 3-year/100,000 km full vehicle warranty, and an 8-year/200,000 km battery warranty. The Dynamic trim also includes extras like a 15 kW wireless smartphone charger and electrically adjustable seats.
Battery Size (kWh)
The Comfort trim is equipped with a 30.08 kWh battery supporting DC fast charging up to 30 kW, while the Dynamic features a larger 38.88 kWh battery with 40 kW DC fast charging. This allows the Dynamic model to charge from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
Range (km)
The Comfort variant offers a WLTP-rated range of 232 km, while the Dynamic extends this to 295 km. These ranges make the Dolphin Surf a practical choice for daily urban travel and short trips, though longer highway drives may require charging stops.
Power (kW)
Both versions are powered by a single electric motor delivering 55 kW and 135 Nm of torque to the front wheels. This output surpasses the Dayun S5’s 35 kW but falls below the standard BYD Dolphin’s 70 kW and the GWM Ora 03’s 126 kW.
Top Speed (km/h)
The Dolphin Surf has a top speed of 130 km/h. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 14.2 seconds for the Comfort model and 15.5 seconds for the Dynamic, reflecting its focus on efficiency in urban settings.
2. Dayun S5
The Dayun S5 (also known as Yuehu S5 or DY3) made its debut in South Africa in July 2025, introduced by Enviro Automotive. Initially celebrated as the most affordable EV in the region, it was soon outpriced by the BYD Dolphin Surf in early 2026. Motoring journalist Charl Bosch highlighted its delayed introduction to the South African market, noting:
"debuting seven years after its global launch in China, where it has sold 35,000 units".
Designed with urban drivers in mind, the S5 offers a practical interior featuring a 7-inch LCD instrument cluster and an 8-inch infotainment screen. Its 201 mm ground clearance is well-suited for city roads. Available in two trims – Standard (R399,900) and VIP (R449,900) – the S5 comes with a 3-year/60,000 km warranty and service plan, as well as a 5-year/120,000 km battery guarantee.
Price (ZAR)
The Standard trim of the S5 is priced at R399,900, which is R60,000 more than the BYD Dolphin Surf. The VIP trim, at R449,900, offers added features like the SmartLink App for remote control of climate and windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and parking sensors for both the front and rear. Both trims include safety features such as dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, hill start assist, and a rearview camera.
Battery Size (kWh)
Equipped with a 31.7 kWh battery, the S5 consumes approximately 10.7 kWh per 100 km. Charging options include a 220V AC outlet, which takes about four hours for a full charge, and DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in under an hour.
Range (km)
On a full charge, the S5 delivers a claimed range of 330 km. This matches the Dongfeng Box E1 330 and surpasses the BYD Dolphin Surf, which offers 232 km (Comfort variant) and 295 km (Dynamic variant). These numbers make the S5 a practical choice for daily city commutes and short-distance travel.
Power (kW)
The S5 features a front-mounted electric motor that generates 35 kW and 105 Nm of torque. While these figures are lower than the BYD Dolphin Surf’s 55 kW and the Dongfeng Box’s 70 kW, the S5 is designed for urban efficiency. Dealerfloor describes it as well-suited for local driving conditions. Its top speed of 115 km/h is also an improvement over the 100 km/h limit seen in other markets, adding a bit more flexibility for drivers.
3. Dongfeng Box E1 330
The Dongfeng Box E1 330, also known as the Nammi 01 in China, hit the market in January 2026 and has quickly become South Africa’s third most affordable electric hatchback. Its interior design leans toward simplicity, featuring a 12.8-inch infotainment screen and a 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster. For safety, it comes equipped with advanced systems like a 360° surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Price (ZAR)
The E1 330 is priced at R459,000, which includes a five-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/200,000 km battery warranty. Compared to its competitors, it costs R59,100 more than the Dayun S5’s Standard trim and is priced higher than the BYD Dolphin Surf’s entry-level model. For those looking for upgrades, Dongfeng also offers higher-trim options: the E2 330 at R469,000, the E2 430 at R499,000, and the E3 430 at R519,000.
Battery Size (kWh)
The E1 330 is powered by a 32.6 kWh battery that supports DC fast charging. It can charge up to 80% in about 30 minutes, and an 8-minute charge adds approximately 200 km of range.
Range (km)
A full charge provides a range of 330 km, making it a practical choice for daily commutes.
Power (kW)
The E1 330 is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor, delivering 70 kW of power and 160 Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 140 km/h, allowing it to handle highway driving with ease.
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4. BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin builds on the foundation set by the Dolphin Surf, offering a larger battery, improved features, and a more premium feel – all while maintaining a competitive price point. When it launched in early 2024, it earned the distinction of being South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle. Designed on BYD’s specialized e-Platform 3.0, the Dolphin comes packed with features like a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, synthetic leather seats, and radar-based driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection. This model is perfect for drivers looking for an economical EV with enhanced performance and capabilities.
Price (ZAR)
The BYD Dolphin’s pricing reflects its upgraded features. The Standard Range model starts at R539,900, offering a more advanced option compared to the entry-level Dolphin Surf. For those seeking even more range, an Extended Range variant is available at a higher price.
Battery Size (kWh)
The Standard Range version boasts a 60.4 kWh battery pack, incorporating BYD’s advanced Blade battery technology.
Range (km)
On a full charge, the Dolphin delivers an estimated range of 340 km. Charging at home is quite economical, costing roughly 40 cents per kilometer – about a third of what you’d spend fueling gas-powered hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Polo Vivo or Renault Clio.
Power (kW)
The Dolphin is powered by a front-mounted motor generating 70 kW of power and 180 Nm of torque.
5. GWM Ora 03
The GWM Ora 03 stands out in the affordable EV market, offering a solid mix of features and performance. With four trim options – 300 Super Luxury, 400 Super Luxury, 400 Ultra Luxury, and 400 GT Ultra Luxury – this compact electric car combines nimble handling with effective noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control. Each model is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering 126 kW and 250 Nm for steady and reliable performance.
Kyle Kock, Road Test Editor at CarMag, shared his thoughts on the vehicle:
"This is an impressive addition to the EV market, with all the bells and whistles, a range of models to choose from, and feels suitably premium."
Here’s a closer look at its pricing, battery capabilities, driving range, and speed.
Price (ZAR)
The 300 Super Luxury trim starts at R686,950, making it the most budget-friendly EV in its class – around R90,000 less than competitors like the Mini Cooper SE and Volvo EX30. The other trims are priced as follows: the 400 Super Luxury at R775,950, the 400 Ultra Luxury at R805,950, and the top-tier 400 GT Ultra Luxury at R835,950.
Battery Size (kWh)
The 300 Super Luxury features a 48 kWh lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) battery, while the 400 series models are equipped with a larger 63 kWh nickel-manganese cobalt (NMC) battery. Using a 64 kW DC fast charger, the 48 kWh battery charges from 10% to 89% in about 50 minutes. For a full charge, the 11 kW AC charger takes roughly 5.5 hours.
Range (km)
The 300 Super Luxury offers a WLTP range of 310 km. The 400 Super Luxury and 400 Ultra Luxury trims extend this to 420 km, while the 400 GT Ultra Luxury achieves 400 km due to slightly higher energy consumption. Charging at home costs an estimated R0.40 per kilometer, which is a noticeable savings compared to the roughly R1.17 per kilometer for petrol vehicles.
Top Speed (km/h)
All trims deliver a top speed of nearly 160 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 8.5 seconds.
Advantages and Disadvantages
When it comes to affordable EVs in South Africa, each model brings something different to the table, balancing price, performance, and features to cater to a variety of driving needs. Let’s dive into the highlights and trade-offs of the options available:
The BYD Dolphin Surf earns its spot as the most budget-friendly EV, starting at just R339,900. It features DC fast charging that can juice up from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. However, its 232 km base range is the shortest in this lineup, and its interior design reflects its entry-level price point.
The Dayun S5, priced at R399,900, offers a decent 330 km range, making it a solid choice for city commutes. That said, its 35 kW power output limits its highway performance and ability to handle steep inclines.
The Dongfeng Box E1 330 provides 430 km of range and a top speed of 140 km/h, but it comes with a heftier price tag of R459,000. It offers excellent range for its cost, though it’s pricier than the BYD Dolphin Surf and Dayun S5.
The BYD Dolphin standard model ups the ante with a 60.4 kWh battery and a price point of R539,900. While it boasts proven reliability, it’s a significant jump in cost from the Surf variant.
Finally, the GWM Ora 03 stands out for its 126 kW power and 250 N.m torque, making it the performance leader of the group. It’s ideal for highway driving and comes with a retro-inspired design. However, at R686,950, it’s the most expensive option and offers a lower range (310 km) compared to cheaper models like the Dongfeng Box E1 330.
| EV Model | Starting Price | Performance | Claimed Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Surf | R339,900 | 55 kW | 232–295 km | Affordable; fast DC charging (30 mins); modern tech | Shortest range; basic interior |
| Dayun S5 | R399,900 | 35 kW / 105 N.m | 330 km | Great city range under R400k | Low power; not ideal for highways |
| Dongfeng Box E1 330 | R459,000 | 70 kW / 160 N.m | 330–430 km | Long range for the price; 140 km/h top speed | Higher price than BYD Surf or Dayun S5 |
| BYD Dolphin | R539,900 | 70 kW / 180 N.m | 340 km | Larger battery; reliable performance | Big price jump from the Surf variant |
| GWM Ora 03 | R686,950 | 126 kW / 250 N.m | 310 km | Best power output; stylish design; high safety features | Most expensive; lower range than rivals |
These EVs cater to different driver profiles, from urban commuters to those who need more power for highway travel. Despite their differences, all these models reflect the increasing accessibility of EVs in South Africa. With running costs as low as 40 cents per kilometer for home charging, reduced maintenance needs, and 8-year battery warranties, even the most affordable options present a compelling case for long-term savings.
Conclusion
South Africa’s affordable EV market offers a range of options designed for different driving needs. For city commuters on a budget, the BYD Dolphin Surf at R339,900 is a standout choice. It’s tailored for urban driving, supports DC fast charging (allowing the battery to go from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes), and offers running costs of about 40 cents per kilometer when charged at home. Another budget-friendly option is the Dayun S5, priced at R399,900, which provides a 330 km range ideal for city use.
For those who need longer range or greater versatility, models like the Dongfeng Box E1 330 (up to 430 km range, R459,000) and the BYD Dolphin Standard Range (340 km range, R539,900) offer more power and extended range. These vehicles are better suited for highway driving or carrying heavier loads compared to entry-level models.
Drivers seeking performance will find the GWM Ora 03 particularly appealing. With 126 kW of power and 250 N.m of torque – about four times the output of the Dayun S5 – it’s built for highway use and confident overtaking. Priced at R686,950, it prioritizes capability and performance.
Across all these choices, robust warranty packages add extra value. For instance, BYD provides an 8-year warranty, offering long-term peace of mind. Whether your priority is affordability, range, or performance, South Africa’s EV market offers options to meet a variety of needs and budgets.
FAQs
Why is the BYD Dolphin Surf considered the most affordable EV in South Africa?
The BYD Dolphin Surf grabs attention as South Africa’s most budget-friendly electric vehicle, with a starting price of R339,900 for the Comfort variant. This makes it the cheapest new EV on the market, appealing to buyers looking for an economical entry into electric driving.
What’s impressive is that the Dolphin Surf manages to balance affordability with key features, ensuring it doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its design fits well with South African roads, and as the country’s charging network continues to expand, it becomes an even more practical choice for those ready to embrace electric mobility.
What is the driving range of these affordable EVs for daily use?
Most electric vehicles (EVs) arriving in South Africa fall within a range of 125 to 260 miles per charge, making them a practical choice for city commutes and shorter road trips. For instance, models such as the BYD Dolphin Mini and GWM Ora 03 typically deliver ranges between 125 and 215 miles. On the other hand, more advanced options like the BYD Atto 3 can stretch up to 260 miles.
These capabilities make EVs suitable for everyday use, with enough versatility for occasional longer journeys, especially as South Africa’s charging network continues to expand.
What are the main advantages of switching to an electric vehicle in South Africa?
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) in South Africa offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for many drivers. One of the standout perks is lower running costs. Electricity is typically cheaper than petrol, and since EVs have fewer moving parts, maintenance becomes simpler and less frequent – no oil changes or complex engine repairs. Over time, these savings can add up significantly.
Another major benefit is that EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner option for the environment. This can help combat air pollution and contribute to addressing South Africa’s pressing environmental issues. Plus, with advancements in charging technology – like fast-charging stations and portable power options – owning an EV is becoming more convenient, even in areas where power supply can be unpredictable.
Choosing an EV not only saves money and reduces your carbon footprint but also supports South Africa’s transition to greener and more sustainable transportation. It’s a forward-thinking choice for both your wallet and the planet.
