When importing electric vehicles into Bolivia, model selection is not about global popularity. It is about local practicality. Terrain, charging infrastructure, road quality, altitude, and buyer psychology all influence which models will succeed.

Below is a structured analysis of the most relevant BYD electric models for Bolivia today.

1. BYD Yuan Plus (Atto 3) – The Safest All-Round Bet

If there is one model that balances performance, practicality, and export maturity, it is the Yuan Plus.

The Yuan Plus is powered by a 150 kW front-mounted electric motor producing 310 Nm of torque, paired with a 60.48 kWh Blade Battery (LFP). In many global markets it carries a WLTP range of approximately 420 km, while under CLTC it is rated around 430 km.

In Bolivian conditions, realistic expectations would be:

• Urban driving (Santa Cruz): 360–400 km
• Mixed terrain driving: 330–360 km
• High-altitude mountainous driving: 300–340 km

Why it works well in Bolivia:

• Strong torque output handles steep inclines.
• Adequate ground clearance for uneven roads.
• Battery size is large enough to compensate for altitude-related efficiency losses.
• CCS2 export versions are widely available.
• DC fast charging capability up to ~80 kW is practical for future infrastructure growth.

For dealerships, this is often the most balanced and lowest-risk import choice.

2. BYD Yuan Up – Urban-Focused and Cost Efficient

The Yuan Up is smaller and more affordable, targeting first-time EV buyers and young families.

Depending on configuration, it offers:

• Battery capacity options around 32–45 kWh
• Motor output between 70 kW and 130 kW
• CLTC ranges roughly between 301 km and 401 km (depending on version)

In Bolivia, realistic range estimates would be:

• 250–330 km depending on battery variant and terrain

Advantages for Bolivia:

• Compact size ideal for La Paz and Cochabamba urban traffic
• Lower purchase cost improves accessibility
• Efficient energy consumption (~12–13 kWh per 100 km under test cycles)
• LFP Blade Battery ensures safety and durability

Limitations:

• Smaller battery makes high-altitude range drop more noticeable
• Less suited for long intercity highway travel
• Rear seat width may feel tight for larger families

Yuan Up is ideal as:

• A second household vehicle
• Ride-hailing fleet car
• Urban commuter vehicle

3. BYD Dolphin – Balanced Compact Hatchback

The Dolphin sits between the Yuan Up and Yuan Plus in market positioning.

Key specifications (depending on version):

• 44.9 kWh or 60 kWh Blade Battery
• Motor output between 70 kW and 150 kW
• CLTC range up to ~427 km

For Bolivian usage:

• 300–370 km realistic urban range
• Better aerodynamic efficiency than small SUVs
• Lower energy consumption than Yuan Plus

Advantages:

• Good value-to-range ratio
• Smooth driving behavior
• Mature global export support
• Strong suitability for fleet electrification

Potential drawback:

• Lower ground clearance compared to SUVs
• May not appeal to buyers preferring crossover styling

For fleet operators, Dolphin is often the most economically efficient model per kilometer.

4. BYD Dolphin Mini (Seagull) – Entry-Level Urban EV

The Dolphin Mini (known in some markets as Seagull) is BYD’s ultra-compact electric hatchback.

Specifications typically include:

• 30–38 kWh battery options
• 55 kW or 75 kW motor variants
• CLTC range around 305 km (higher spec)

Realistic Bolivian range:

• 200–260 km depending on terrain and temperature

This model makes sense in Bolivia under very specific conditions:

• Daily driving under 40–60 km
• Reliable access to home charging
• Strictly urban operation
• Price-sensitive buyers

However:

• Limited high-speed highway range
• Not ideal for mountainous intercity routes
• Smaller cabin reduces family practicality

Dolphin Mini works best for:

• Urban delivery fleets
• City-only commuting
• Budget EV introduction

5. Other BYD EVs Worth Considering

Depending on importer strategy, additional models may be viable:

BYD Seal

• Up to ~82.5 kWh battery (in higher trims)
• Rear-wheel or AWD configurations
• Performance-oriented (0–100 km/h under 4 seconds in some versions)
• 800V platform in select variants
• Suitable for executive segment

Seal may appeal to upper-income buyers or corporate fleets.

BYD Song Plus EV

• Larger SUV body
• Higher seating position
• Practical for family market

BYD e6 (Fleet-Focused MPV)

• Often used for taxi or commercial fleets
• Large cargo capacity
• Proven durability in fleet markets

Which Model Makes the Most Sense for Bolivia?

For private importers:

• Yuan Plus is the safest overall choice.

For fleet or ride-hailing operators:

• Dolphin offers the best cost-per-kilometer efficiency.

For budget urban buyers:

• Yuan Up or Dolphin Mini are practical entry points.

For executive positioning:

• Seal or larger EV sedans provide prestige and performance.

Strategic Recommendation for Bolivian Importers

Bolivia’s terrain and infrastructure suggest:

• Battery capacity above 50 kWh is safer for multi-purpose use.
• CCS2 charging compatibility must be confirmed before shipment.
• Ground clearance should not be overlooked.
• Realistic range planning must account for altitude.

The strongest long-term combination for the Bolivian market today would likely be:

1. Yuan Plus (primary retail SUV)
2. Dolphin (fleet and urban market)
3. Yuan Up (entry-level SUV segment)
4. Limited Seal units for premium positioning