Andy Nurman
December 30, 2023
The electric vehicles (EV) market in Malaysia is slowly gaining traction, with more affordable options entering the market. Two EVs priced under RM100,000 making waves are the BYD Dolphin and Neta V. Let’s compare these wallet-friendly electric cars.
Pricing and Variants
The BYD Dolphin starts from RM99,900 for the Dynamic Standard Range model, with a 44.92kWh battery pack. The higher-spec Premium Extended Range with a 60.48 kWh battery is priced at RM124,900.
The Neta V on the other hand is selling for a flat RM99,800, with a 38.5kWh battery configuration.
In terms of value, the base Dolphin presents slightly better proposition, packing a larger battery and likely longer range at a similar price point as the Neta V.
Estimated Range
BYD claims a 340km WLTP-rated range for the Standard Range Dolphin, extending to 427km for the Extended Range model.
Neta V’s estimated range is lower at 380km based on the NEDC cycle (closer to 300km on WLTP). Real-world operational range may differ.
While rated range figures appear in the Dolphin’s favor, real-world driving habits and conditions can impact eventual range.
Verdict
These entry level EVs are very compelling. But based on the pricing, variant options, and estimated range comparisons between the BYD Dolphin and Neta V, the BYD Dolphin seems to come out ahead as the more compelling wallet-friendly EV option in Malaysia.
Given the minor price difference but advantage in battery size and estimated operational range, the BYD Dolphin presents very strong value among affordable EVs in Malaysia. The pricing also makes BYD’s advanced EV technology more accessible to mainstream buyers. With attractive propositions like the Dolphin, BYD continues leading the charge in spurring mass EV adoption locally through its competitive balance of pricing and capabilities.
