Head-to-head
BYD Dolphin vs GAC Aion UT
Two hatchs priced within $1,000 of each other. Here's where each pulls ahead on range, charging, safety and warranty.
Option A · Hatch
BYD Dolphin
The Dolphin is one of Australia's cheapest new EVs and one of the best small-car bargains, full stop. With a Blade LFP battery, full ADAS suite, and 5-star ANCAP rating, it punches well above its sticker price.
- From
- $29,990
- Range
- 427 km
- Battery
- 60.5 kWh
Option B · Hatch
GAC Aion UT
GAC's electric small hatch — 60 kWh LFP battery, 430 km WLTP range, and an 8-year / 200,000 km battery warranty. Aggressive launch pricing at $30,990 for the first 600 buyers.
- From
- $30,990
- Range
- 430 km
- Battery
- 60 kWh
Key differences at a glance
The biggest material gaps between the BYD Dolphin and GAC Aion UT, ranked by how much they're likely to matter day-to-day.
- 1
Warranty · advantage GAC Aion UT
The GAC Aion UT covers the vehicle for 2 more years (8 vs 6 yrs).
- 2
Price · advantage BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin undercuts the GAC Aion UT by $1,000 (3%) on starting price.
Spec for spec
Highlighted cells show the better number in each row.
Where the BYD Dolphin wins
- ▸ Cheaper by $1,000
- ▸ Quicker 0–100 km/h (7s vs 7.3s)
- ▸ Faster DC charging peak (88 kW vs 87 kW)
Where the GAC Aion UT wins
- ▸ 3 km longer WLTP range
- ▸ Longer warranty (8 years)
BYD Dolphin
What we like
- ✓ Among the cheapest EVs on sale in Australia
- ✓ Surprisingly long range from the Premium variant
- ✓ Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability standard
What we don't
- ✕ Funky styling won't suit everyone
- ✕ Rear seat space tighter than the Atto 3
- ✕ Limited dealer network outside capital cities
GAC Aion UT
What we like
- ✓ Class-leading 8-year vehicle warranty (unlimited km)
- ✓ Generous 200,000 km battery warranty distance
- ✓ Quick 24-min DC charge (10-80%)
What we don't
- ✕ GAC service network is brand new in Australia
- ✕ Not yet ANCAP tested
- ✕ Launch pricing rises after first 600 orders
Frequently asked: BYD Dolphin vs GAC Aion UT
Quick answers to the questions cross-shoppers most often ask about this pair.
- Which is cheaper, the BYD Dolphin or the GAC Aion UT?
- The BYD Dolphin is the cheaper of the two — it starts at $29,990 versus $30,990 for the GAC Aion UT, a $1,000 difference. Prices shown are manufacturer recommended retail excluding on-road costs.
- Which has the longer driving range?
- The GAC Aion UT has the longer WLTP-claimed range at 430 km, 3 km further than the BYD Dolphin's 427 km. Real-world range typically lands 10–20% below the WLTP figure depending on speed, terrain, climate and load.
- Which one charges faster on a DC fast charger?
- The BYD Dolphin accepts a peak DC charging rate of 88 kW versus 87 kW for the GAC Aion UT. Peak rate only holds for a short window during the charging curve, so real-world 10–80% times often diverge less than the peak numbers suggest. Compatibility with 350 kW chargers depends on the vehicle's onboard architecture, not just the published peak.
- Which has the longer warranty?
- The GAC Aion UT is covered by a 8-year vehicle warranty, versus 6 years for the BYD Dolphin. Both also carry separate high-voltage battery warranties — check the manufacturer's site for the latest kilometre and condition limits.
Which one should you buy?
The short version, based on where each car pulls ahead.
Choose the
GAC Aion UT
if…
- ✓ peace-of-mind warranty matters (2 more years of cover)
- ✓ you match the profile: budget-conscious commuters
Verdict reasoning is derived from published specs; brand preference, dealer experience and how a car drives are personal — always take a test drive before deciding.