BYD has revealed a significant update to its budget-friendly Seagull EV, known in Europe as the Dolphin Surf, introducing a longer body and a stronger electric motor. This new iteration extends the vehicle’s length considerably, aiming to enhance interior space and driving comfort while advancing its overall performance.
The Seagull remains one of BYD’s most economical electric cars, priced from around $10,000 in China and approximately $25,000 in the UK and Europe, positioning it among the most accessible EV options available. The model solidified its global presence by ranking as the fifth best-selling electric vehicle worldwide during the first part of 2026, with sales surpassing 125,000 units.
The latest version showcases dimensions of 4,205 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, featuring a 2,650 mm wheelbase. These measurements reflect a notable increase from the previous model’s 3,780 mm length. Powertrain improvements include an upgraded electric motor delivering 95 kW (127 hp), significantly higher than the former 55 kW (75 hp) unit, promising a more dynamic driving experience.
Battery specifications remain anchored in BYD’s Blade Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) technology, with no exact details yet provided. The current Seagull offers two battery capacities: 30.08 kWh and 38.88 kWh, yielding driving ranges of up to 305 km (190 miles) and 405 km (251 miles) respectively, based on CLTC standards.
Inside the Seagull, a revamped 12.8-inch floating central touchscreen serves as the hub for the DiLink 150 smart cockpit interface, featuring 3D vehicle controls to enhance user interaction and usability. Higher trim levels introduce BYD’s God’s Eye B system, a sophisticated driver assistance package powered by Nvidia’s Drive Orin chip. This setup includes a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor—uncommon in this segment—enabling features like Navigation on Autopilot for city and highway driving, as well as automated parking assistance.
The new variants span a pricing range starting from approximately $10,300 for base models with a 305 km range, up to $14,400 for top-tier trims equipped with the advanced God’s Eye B system and a 405 km range, reaffirming BYD’s commitment to offering competitive technology at affordable prices.
The updated Seagull has received official approval from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, signaling its imminent market availability. While this regulatory nod applies initially to the Chinese market, BYD’s established practice suggests the enhanced model will soon reach international sales channels, continuing its global reach under the Dolphin Surf or Dolphin Mini branding.