CAR dealers across the UK have voted the Chinese-made BYD Dolphin as their Car of the Year.

The award comes on the back of the Car Dealer Power survey which was conducted amongst dealers by Car Dealer Magazine and which attracted 1,000 entries.

Winners and highly commended firms were named in 19 supplier categories, as well as the best car manufacturers to represent, with the BYD hatchback securing the top honours as the prestigious Car of the Year.

James Baggott, editor-in-chief of Car Dealer Magazine, said: "It's amazing to see the pace at which BYD has arrived and made an impact on the UK car market - and with cars like the Dolphin in its range it's easy to see why dealers and customers are so impressed with the brand."

He adds: "The BYD Dolphin shows an electric hatchback needn't be expensive - relatively speaking for an EV - and costs less than nearly all its European competition.Factor in an impressive driving range, seating for five, and all the tech you'd ever need, it's a bit of a game changer. Congratulations to BYD."