New Seagull model unveiled

Chinese automaker BYD launched the second generation of its Seagull model on October 20 during an event in Zhengzhou. The new version is now available in China and was also showcased at the Paris Motor Show alongside the Atto 8 model.

Significant size increase

The new Seagull is notably larger than its predecessor, with a length of 4.21 meters, up from 3.78 meters. The European version, called the Dolphin Surf, is slightly smaller at 3.99 meters. The car now has a wheelbase of 2.65 meters, an increase of about 15 centimeters.

Enhanced performance and features

The new model offers improved performance with two electric motors providing 114 and 127 horsepower. These motors are now located at the rear, changing the car to rear-wheel drive. The European Dolphin Surf version has 156 horsepower, while the first-generation Seagull had only 75 horsepower in China.

Battery and range improvements

The new Seagull uses the Blade 2.0 battery with lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry, available in 30.1 and 39.2 kWh capacities. These provide ranges of 320 and 420 kilometers under the CLTC standard, or about 259 and 340 kilometers using the European WLTP cycle.

Pricing and charging options

The base version of the new Seagull costs 65,900 yuan, which is about 4,000 yuan less than the previous generation. Higher trims with the 39.2 kWh battery include ultra-fast charging, which can charge the battery from 10 to 70% in 5 minutes using Flash Charging stations.

European market and additional features

The new Seagull may face higher prices in Europe due to tariffs, though production in Hungary could help avoid extra taxes. The current Dolphin Surf is expected to start at 19,990 euros in France. The car can also be equipped with a LiDAR sensor for advanced driver assistance, known as God's Eye (DiPilot 300).