CCS2 connector being plugged into a BYD Dolphin charge port, showing the Type 2 and DC pin sections

BYD Dolphin Charger Types: Every Plug and Port Explained

The BYD Dolphin uses a single CCS2 combo charging port. The upper Type 2 section handles AC charging at up to 7 kW, while the full CCS2 connector handles DC fast charging, at up to around 60 kW on the Standard Range and 80 kW on the Extended Range. You can charge three ways: a portable cable into a household socket, an AC wallbox or public AC point, or a public DC fast charger. Home AC charging covers most everyday needs.

BYD Dolphin Charging at a Glance

Measurement Detail
AC connector Type 2
DC connector CCS2
AC charging speed Up to 7 kW
DC charging speed Around 60 kW (Standard), 80 kW (Extended)
Port type One CCS2 combo port
Speed figures source Market specifications, not the manual

The Dolphin's Charge Port

The Dolphin has one charging port that does everything, which keeps things simple. In Australia and Europe it is the CCS2 standard, so it works with virtually all public infrastructure.

The port is a combo design in two parts:

  • The upper section: A Type 2 connector, used for all AC charging, whether at home or a public AC point
  • The lower section: Two extra DC pins that, together with the Type 2 part above, form the full CCS2 connector for DC fast charging

So a Type 2 AC plug clips into the top, while a CCS2 DC plug engages the whole port. One port, two plug types, no adapters needed.

The Three Ways to Charge Your Dolphin

The owner's manual describes three charging methods, each suited to a different situation.

1. Portable Cable (Mode 2 Charging)

This is the emergency and occasional-use option. A portable cable plugs into a standard household socket at one end and the Type 2 port at the other, delivering around 2.3 kW.

It is the slowest method, taking a long time for a full charge, but it is useful when no dedicated charger is available. The manual stresses using a dedicated AC line and outlet that meets local standards, so the circuit is not overloaded.

2. AC Charging (Wallbox or Public Point)

This is the everyday method most owners use. A Type 2 cable connects the car to a home wallbox or a public AC point, charging at up to 7 kW.

At 7 kW, a home wallbox comfortably refills the Dolphin overnight. The Extended Range can accept faster three-phase AC, up to 11 kW, in markets and homes with three-phase power, though 7 kW single-phase is the common setup.

3. DC Fast Charging (Public)

This is the road-trip method. At a public DC fast charger, the full CCS2 connector delivers high power, up to around 60 kW on the Standard Range and 80 kW on the Extended Range.

That is enough to add substantial range during a short stop, typically taking the battery from low to 80 percent in roughly 30 to 40 minutes depending on variant and conditions.

Charging Speeds and Times

Here is a realistic picture of how long each method takes. These figures come from market specifications, as the manual documents the equipment rather than kilowatt ratings.

  • Household socket (about 2.3 kW): Overnight and then some, best as a backup
  • 7 kW AC wallbox: A full charge overnight, ideal for daily use
  • DC fast charger: Roughly 30 to 40 minutes for the bulk of a charge on a trip
  • The takeaway: AC at home handles the vast majority of driving, with DC for longer journeys

How to Charge Safely

The manual sets out clear steps and precautions for safe charging, whichever method you use.

  • Connect firmly: Align the connector with the port and push it in until secure, and lock it for DC charging
  • Do not force it out: Never pull the connector while the port is locked, or you risk damaging the port
  • Unlock before unplugging: The port has an electronic lock, so unlock it first
  • Turn off the charger to stop DC: End DC charging at the charger before disconnecting
  • Keep the A/C off: The manual suggests not running the air conditioning during charging to preserve charging power
  • Charge in a ventilated area: Park somewhere ventilated and avoid using damaged equipment

The car automatically stops charging when the battery is full, so you cannot overcharge it.

Choosing Your Charging Equipment

Having the right gear makes charging effortless. A couple of essentials cover most owners.

  • A quality Type 2 cable: Essential for AC wallboxes and public AC points that do not have a tethered cable
  • A portable charger: A backup for charging from a household socket when away from a wallbox
  • Match the rating: A cable rated to at least the car's 7 kW AC ensures full-speed charging

For setting up home charging in particular, our home charging and Mode 2 cable guide walks new owners through the essentials, and our overview of which Type 2 chargers are compatible with BYD helps you choose.

Charging Across the BYD Range

BYD models share the same CCS2 approach, with small differences in speed. If you own another, our guide to the Atto 3's charger types covers the SUV, which uses the same Type 2 and CCS2 combination.

Infographic explaining the BYD Dolphin CCS2 combo port, the three charging methods, and their speeds

Common Mistakes

  • Expecting fast AC everywhere: The Dolphin caps at 7 kW AC, so a 22 kW point still delivers 7 kW
  • Assuming three-phase gives more: On a single-phase car, an 11 kW point may deliver less, not more
  • Forcing the connector out: Always unlock the port before unplugging
  • Relying on the portable cable: It is a backup, not a daily charging solution
  • Bringing no Type 2 cable: Many public AC points need you to supply your own
  • Running the A/C while charging: The manual suggests switching it off to preserve charging power
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