The BYD Dolphin Mini recorded a notable performance in January 2026, surpassing the Renault Kwid in registrations in the Brazilian market. The electric compact reached 2,840 units sold, while the French model had 2,613 registrations in the same period.
This brand positions the Dolphin Mini as the best-selling electric vehicle of the month, highlighting the gradual expansion of EV models in the country. Throughout 2025, the Dolphin Mini accumulated more than 32 thousand registered units, which placed it in 25th position among the best-selling passenger cars.
The Renault Kwid, despite leading the annual accumulation of 2025 with almost 60 thousand units, saw its monthly advantage being challenged by the advance of electric cars. Esse scenario reflects changes in consumer behavior, with greater interest in sustainable and economical options in operation.
Dolphin Mini annual performance
BYD Dolphin Mini maintained a monthly average of around 2,700 registrations in 2025, consolidating its presence in the national ranking. Esse volume surpassed traditional models such as Fiat Cronos, Citroën C3 and Renault Kardian.
Compared to 2024, when it registered almost 22 thousand units and finished in 29th position, the growth was approximately 10 thousand additional registrations. Essa evolution demonstrates the growing acceptance of compact electric vehicles in the entry-level segment.
Comparison with Renault Kwid
The Renault Kwid remains an affordable option in the internal combustion market, with a strong distribution network and appeal to urban buyers. However, in January 2026, Dolphin Mini presented higher numbers, driven by tax incentives and greater energy efficiency.
While the Kwid offers versatility on varied terrains and a competitive initial cost, the Dolphin Mini stands out for its range of up to 280 km and fast recharging. Esses attributes appeal to consumers concerned about long-term operating costs and zero emissions.
The E-Tech, the electric version of the Kwid, registered just 1,093 units in 2025, showing that the transition to electric is still gradual in the Renault line. Já o Dolphin Mini accounted for around 40% of total electric sales in the Brasil last year.
Ranking of the best-selling trams
The electric vehicle market in the Brasil broke a record in 2025, with growth of 26% compared to 2024. The Dolphin Mini led the ranking with 32,488 units, followed by the BYD Dolphin with 15,237 registrations.
Other notable models include the Volvo EX30 with 8,456 units and the BYD Yuan Plus with 7,892. Essa list reflects BYD’s dominance in the segment, with multiple models in the top 10.
The growth reflects investments in charging infrastructure and favorable government policies. Dezembro of 2025 marked the month with the highest number of electrified vehicle registrations in the country’s history.
The Renault Kwid E-Tech, despite being positioned as an urban option with 180 km of autonomy, came in 10th place with modest numbers. Isso indicates that Chinese brands like BYD are quickly gaining ground.
Sales driving factors
The success of the Dolphin Mini in 2025 is due to a combination of an affordable price, below R$100,000 in some versions, and performance suitable for daily use. Seu 55 kW engine provides agility in urban traffic, complemented by features such as recharging from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes.
Incentives such as IPVA exemption in some states and federal sustainable mobility programs contributed to sales volume. Além In addition, the expansion of the BYD dealership network facilitated access in metropolitan regions.
Comparatively, the Renault Kwid faces increasing competition from electric engines, but maintains strength in its durability and low maintenance cost for combustion engines. The E-Tech version seeks to attract the same audience, but with lower autonomy than the Dolphin Mini.
Evolution of the Brazilian market
The Brazilian automotive sector observed a gradual transition to electric vehicles throughout 2025, with the Dolphin Mini as the protagonist of this change. Seu positioning as the best-selling electric car for the second year in a row reinforces the trend towards adopting clean technologies.
Models such as the Jetour T2 and the Tank 300, with an off-road focus, contrast with the urban profile of the Dolphin Mini, but the general growth of electric vehicles indicates diversification. In 2026, new launches such as additional hybrids are expected to intensify competition.
The Renault Kwid, leader in 2025 with 60 thousand units, represents the resilience of traditional entry-level cars. However, the monthly advance of Dolphin Mini in January suggests that electrics could gain more market share.
Infrastructure and support
The expansion of the charging infrastructure in the Brasil supported the growth in electric sales in 2025.
Government programs, including subsidies for purchasing EVs, have benefited individual buyers and business fleets. Essa structure encouraged overcoming barriers such as limited autonomy on long trips.
- BYD dealership network expanded to 150 locations by 2025.
- Investments in higher density batteries have improved the efficiency of the Dolphin Mini.
- Cost comparison: Operação electric costs 70% less than combustion on average in urban areas.
Outlook for 2026
The Dolphin Mini starts 2026 with positive momentum, after surpassing the Kwid in January. Projeções indicate that electric vehicle sales could grow 30% this year, driven by new models and environmental regulations.
The Renault Kwid, in turn, updated its line in 2026 with price increases, but maintains appeal for the entry-level segment. The competition between electric and combustion is expected to intensify in compact categories.
New locally manufactured cars, such as hybrid variants, promise to diversify options for consumers. Dolphin Mini, with its consolidated leadership, serves as a benchmark for the sector.
Comparative technical details
The BYD Dolphin Mini offers a range of 280 km for the Inmetro, with a 30 kWh battery and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 14 seconds. Seu compact design measures 3.78 m long, ideal for city parking.
In contrast, the Renault Kwid has a 1.0 flex engine with 71 hp, with an average consumption of 15 km/l on gasoline. The E-Tech version extends the range to 185 km, but with 65 electric hp.
Both are aimed at the entry-level audience, but the Dolphin Mini stands out in terms of energy efficiency and zero emissions. Atualizações in 2025 included improvements to the infotainment system for the BYD model.
The Kwid prioritizes robustness, with a raised suspension for uneven streets. Seu starting price of around R$80 thousand competes directly with the Dolphin Mini below R$100 thousand.
Economic impact on the sector
Sales of the Dolphin Mini in 2025 generated impacts on the supply chain, with an increase in the import of electrical components from the China. Isso stimulated jobs in local assembly and specialized maintenance services.
The Renault Kwid, produced in the Brasil, supports the national industry with thousands of units per year. The monthly surpassing by Dolphin Mini highlights the globalization of the automotive market.
Growth of 26% in electric vehicles reflects foreign investments, such as BYD in Brazilian factories. Essa dynamics favor the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels.
Consumer trends
Brazilian consumers prioritized efficiency and sustainability in 2025, driving Dolphin Mini. Pesquisas indicate that 45% of EV buyers cite fuel economy as a main factor.
The Kwid attracts initial affordability, but higher long-term operating costs challenge its position. Transição for trams is more pronounced in capitals like São Paulo and Rio than Janeiro.
- Choice factors: 60% value daily range above 200 km.
- Demographics: Compradores of EVs have an average income 20% higher than combustion.
- Preferences: Integração with mobility apps influences 30% of decisions.
BYD Expansion in Brasil
BYD expanded its presence with the Dolphin Mini, launching updated versions in 2025. Investimentos in local production aims to reduce costs and meet growing demand.
Compared to the Kwid, the Dolphin Mini offers an 8-year battery warranty, adding value. Essa strategy positions the brand as a leader in affordable electric vehicles.
New models like the Yuan Plus complement the lineup, with 7,892 units in 2025. Competition with the Renault encourages innovation on both sides.
Competition in the compact segment
Other electric cars like the Volvo EX30 sold 8,456 units in 2025, but in higher price ranges. The Dolphin Mini dominates the niche below R$100 thousand.
The Renault Kardian, with 5,678 registrations, competes indirectly, but the focus on combustion limits its sustainable appeal. Atualizações in 2026 could change this balance.
The Citroën C3, with similar volumes to the Kwid, faces pressure from EVs. The compact market represents 40% of total sales in Brasil.
General market data
In 2025, Brasil recorded 1.5 million light vehicles sold, with electric vehicles representing 5%. Dolphin Mini contributed significantly to this percentage.
The Kwid maintained leadership in its segment, but the 26% growth in EVs suggests future changes. Regiões Sul and Sudeste account for 70% of electric vehicle sales.
Projections for 2026 indicate 7% market share for EVs, driven by models like the Dolphin Mini. Isso reflects market maturity.
