Finally, an EV Under $30K!
The electric vehicle revolution just hit a new milestone in Australia. BYD has unveiled the Dolphin Essential, the first EV in the country with a price tag below $30,000 before on-road costs.
With price cuts across their lineup and new, more affordable variants, BYD is making EV ownership more accessible than ever.
Here’s everything you need to know.
This latest release from BYD is a game-changer for budget-friendly EVs. BYD’s latest model brings exciting updates, especially for budget-conscious buyers.
BYD Dolphin Essential:

Priced from $29,990 before on-road costs, this new entry-level variant is $6,900 cheaper than its predecessor, the Dynamic variant, which it replaces.
While the Dolphin Essential achieves a lower price by trimming some features, its performance remains the exact same as its predecessor:
- A 70kW/180Nm electric motor paired with a 44.9kWh battery.
- A claimed driving range of 340km, ideal for city commutes and weekend trips.
To achieve these record-low prices, some features have been removed:
- Dolphin Essential: No panoramic glass roof, wireless phone charging, or heated front seats.
BYD Atto 3 Essential:

Starting at $39,990, it replaces the outgoing Standard variant and undercuts rivals like the $42,990 Chery Omoda E5 BX. This model is poised to become Australia’s most affordable electric SUV.
The Atto 3 Essential offers:
- A 150kW/310Nm motor with a 49.9kWh battery.
- A driving range of 345km.
To achieve these record-low prices, some features have been removed:
- Atto 3 Essential: A smaller 12.8-inch display, no panoramic sunroof, and simplified interior lighting.
BYD Seal:

The Dynamic variant now starts at $46,990, a saving of $2,898.
Premium and Performance variants also see reductions of $2,808 and $3,758 respectively.
BYD Sealion 6:

The Dynamic variant is priced at $45,990, a $3,000 cut compared to its predecessor.
The Premium variant remains at $52,990.
In addition to these changes, BYD has teased the launch of the Sealion 7, expected to be a standout in their lineup. While pricing details for the Sealion 7 are not yet available, it’s clear that BYD is doubling down on affordability across all models.
These price cuts coincide with the imminent discontinuation of key competitors like the MG ZS EV, giving BYD a significant edge in the affordable EV market. Deliveries for the new Dolphin Essential and Atto 3 Essential are set to begin in March 2025, making now the perfect time to secure your order.
With the Dolphin Essential, BYD is proving that EV ownership doesn’t have to break the bank.
Take the first step toward a cleaner, more affordable drive.
The Updated BYD Lineup
| Model | Variant | Pricing (before on-road costs) | Saving |
| Dolphin | Essential | $29,990 | $6,900 |
| Dolphin | Premium | $36,990 | $5,900 |
| Atto 3 | Essential | $39,990 | $4,509 |
| Atto 3 | Premium | $44,990 | $2,509 |
| Seal | Dynamic | $46,990 | $2,898 |
| Seal | Premium | $52,990 | $2,808 |
| Seal | Performance | $61,990 | $3,758 |
| Sealion 6 | Dynamic | $45,990 | $3,000 |
| Sealion 6 | Premium | $52,990 | --- |