Electric vehicles (EVs) have traditionally been associated with high price tags, but 2024 has brought some exciting, affordable alternatives. The BYD Dolphin, Citroën e-C3, and MG 4 are redefining what it means to drive green without breaking the bank. We took these three contenders on a road trip to see which one comes out on top in terms of practicality, driving experience, and overall value for money.
A New Wave of Affordable EVs
Looking at the current electric car market, the average price of a fully electric vehicle is around £59,000—far from affordable for most people. However, manufacturers like BYD, Citroën, and MG are introducing more budget-friendly models, offering practical solutions for drivers who want to make the switch to electric without draining their savings.
The Contenders
The MG 4 has been a strong player in the small electric car category, winning the Small Electric Car of the Year award for two consecutive years. At £26,995 for the entry-level SE trim, it undercuts rivals like the Cupra Born, Renault Megane, and Volkswagen ID 3 by a substantial margin. It boasts an impressive 218-mile range, a 50.8kWh battery, and a maximum charging rate of 117kW. Despite some glitches with its infotainment and interior design, the MG 4 is a solid choice for those seeking affordability and functionality.
Next up, the BYD Dolphin comes with a starting price of £26,195, making it a close competitor to the MG 4. This compact electric hatchback offers a 44.9kWh battery with an official range of 211 miles. The Dolphin is an attractive option thanks to its spacious interior and modern tech features, including a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen. Despite being a relatively new player, BYD impresses with its value for money and innovative design.
Finally, the Citroën e-C3 is the most affordable of the bunch, starting at just £21,900. With a 44kWh battery and a range of 199 miles, the Citroën offers an entry-level option for those on a tighter budget. While it lacks the range of the other two, the Citroën compensates with a quirky, stylish design and a high-quality interior that belies its price.
The Road Trip Experience
On the road, each car faced a different set of challenges. The MG 4 excelled on the motorway, offering smooth cruising and better high-speed stability. It felt comfortable and more refined at higher speeds, with adaptive cruise control to make driving easier. On the other hand, the BYD Dolphin and Citroën e-C3 required more careful driving to conserve range, especially when faced with slower traffic or long stretches of road. Both cars were less comfortable at motorway speeds, with the Dolphin particularly struggling with its soft suspension and lack of steering feedback.
At slower speeds, however, the Citroën e-C3 held its own, offering decent grip and more predictable handling than the BYD Dolphin. The Citroën also had the highest headroom in the back seat, though it was tighter on legroom compared to the other two.
Charging and Efficiency
When it came to charging, the MG 4 outperformed the BYD and Citroën. It charges at a faster rate of 117kW, compared to the Dolphin’s 65kW and the Citroën’s 60kW. As a result, the MG 4 had the quickest turnaround time, with a more efficient charging experience. However, the BYD Dolphin was the most efficient in terms of energy consumption, achieving 4.0 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh), compared to 3.7 for the Citroën and 3.6 for the MG.
Practicality and Comfort
In terms of interior space, the BYD Dolphin offered the most generous legroom, with a flat floor in the back, making it the most comfortable for families. The MG 4, while spacious, lacked a middle headrest, which could be a downside for frequent five-person journeys. The Citroën e-C3 was the tightest in the rear, but its compact size made it easier to park and maneuver around urban areas.
Which Is Best for Africa?
Considering affordability, range, and practicality, the BYD Dolphin stands out as the best option for Africa. Its affordable price, decent range, and innovative features make it a great choice for the region, where EV infrastructure is still developing. The Dolphin’s spacious interior, efficient energy usage, and strong resale value are appealing in markets with growing demand for budget-friendly electric vehicles. While the MG 4 offers a more dynamic driving experience, the Dolphin provides better value and efficiency for the African market.
