Cheapest electric car on AutoTrader – What you get for R300,000

There are currently over 500 electric vehicles (EVs) for sale on AutoTrader, and the cheapest of the lot is a 2025 Dayun DY3, which demands R299,500, making it cheaper than any new EV in South Africa.

Even new, the EV, imported and distributed by Enviro Automotive, sells for around R400,000, which means the listed model is a little more than R100,000 cheaper than the day it arrived in South Africa.

Originating in China, where it is known as the Dayun Yuehu S5, the DY3 is also known as the S5 Mini SUV in our market.

This particular example is the entry-level iteration of the EV – the Standard – with a VIP derivative also available in South Africa, albeit with a R450,000 price tag.

Both variants have been in the country since mid-2024, and the pre-owned model currently available on AutoTrader has completed little over 6,000km, which is relatively low mileage considering it is a year old.

How much EV R300,000 can buy you right now

This particular model, which can be found at i-Car Lifestyle Motors in Centurion, is a white example with a full franchise service history and the remainder of its 60,000km factory warranty remaining.

The listing reads that the EV is in excellent condition and ready for immediate use, which can be expected from a vehicle as new as this.

Furthermore, the dealership calls the DY3 “perfect for daily commuting and school runs” and “a practical choice for budget-conscious and first-time EV buyers”.

The compact Chinese EV measures 3,695mm long and 1,685mm wide, housing a 2,410mm wheelbase, and boasting a respectable 201mm ground clearance and 15-inch steel wheels.

In terms of performance, its single, front-mounted electric motor can produce outputs of up to 35kW and 105Nm, which could be considered on the lower end of the power spectrum.

This power is drawn from a 31.7kWh battery, which allows for a total WLTP driving range of 330km, and a claimed top speed of over 110km/h.

Recharging its power cell can be done via 6kW AC charging, or DC charging up to 30kW, with the former requiring around 8 hours for a full charge, and the latter completing an 80% charge in only one hour.

Inside, the Dayun features a multifunction steering wheel, central infotainment screen and controls, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and Type-C docks.

It also features air-conditioning with climate control, adjustable front seats and electric windows.

Other features include tyre pressure monitoring, keyless entry and start, an ISOFIX child seat anchor point in the rear and a Low-speed Driving Warning System to ensure pedestrian safety.

In terms of safety, the DY3 features a high-strength steel cage body, front and rear MacPherson independent suspension, and disc brakes.

Furthermore, it features LED headlights and taillights, tyre pressure monitoring, two airbags for the driver and front passenger only, ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction control, hill-start assist, descent control, and cruise control, and a rearview camera with Reverse Assistance (RA).

The pre-owned Chinese EV comes with the remainder of its 3-year/60,000km warranty and service plan, as well as its 5-year/120,000km battery warranty.

Pre-owned 2025 Dayun DY3