With local fuel prices on the rise, here are the five most affordable EVs currently available in SA.
If you’re in the market for a value-packed electric vehicle, especially with petrol and diesel costs climbing, we’ve taken a close look at the cheapest EVs on offer in South Africa as of April 2026. Here’s the lineup.
5. BYD Dolphin — from R539 900
When the Dolphin first hit the SA market in early 2024, it was the most affordable EV in the country. It’s sold in Standard Range and Extended Range variants. The cheaper Standard Range comes with a 70 kW/180 N.m electric motor and a 60.4 kWh battery, delivering a claimed range of 340 km on a full charge.
4. Dongfeng Box E1 330 — from R459 000
The Dongfeng Box arrived in South Africa in November 2025. It’s powered by a single front-mounted electric motor rated at 70 kW and 160 N.m. The entry-level model uses a 32.6 kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 330 km per full charge. A larger 43.9 kWh battery is also available, with a claimed 430 km.
3. Dayun S5 — from R399 900
Dayun’s S5 joined SA showrooms in July 2025, with pricing just under R400 000. This emission-free city car comes with a 31.7 kWh battery, a claimed range of 330 km, and an electric motor producing 35 kW and 105 N.m.
2. BYD Dolphin Surf — from R341 900
The Dolphin Surf range in SA comes in Comfort and Dynamic trims. The Dynamic version uses a 30 kWh pack and offers a claimed 232 km, while the larger 38.8 kWh battery is rated at a 295 km range. The Dolphin Surf is also the best-selling EV in SA for March 2026, and it puts out 55 kW.
1. Geely E2 — from R339 900
Geely’s E2 takes the top spot as SA’s most affordable EV. It arrived in mid-April 2026 and uses a single electric motor powered by a 39.4 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, producing 85 kW and 150 N.m. The battery is rated for a claimed range of 325 km on a full charge.
