The BYD Seagull EV is set to receive another update, adding a longer body and a more powerful electric motor. The refreshed model comes just months after BYD introduced the 2026 Seagull in China with a roof-mounted LiDAR system, marking another step in the company’s ongoing updates to its entry-level electric hatchback.
BYD Previews Another Seagull EV Refresh
Starting at 69,800 yuan (about $10,000), the Seagull remains BYD’s smallest and most affordable electric vehicle in China.
Outside China, the model is sold as the Dolphin Surf in Europe and the United Kingdom, where prices start at £18,675 (about $25,000) and €22,990 (about $26,000), respectively. In other international markets, it is marketed as the Dolphin Mini.
According to CleanTechnica, the BYD Seagull/Dolphin Surf (Mini) ranked as the world’s fifth best-selling electric vehicle during the first five months of 2026, with more than 125,000 units sold.
After launching the 2026 Seagull EV in China in May with a roof-mounted LiDAR system—the first in its class—BYD is preparing another updated version.
Zhang Zhuo, general manager of BYD’s Ocean sales division, previewed the new model in a teaser released Friday. The caption stated: “As its silhouette gradually emerges in the shadows, the promise of growing up is about to be fulfilled. #BYDSeagull#.”
Regulatory Filing Reveals Larger Dimensions
On the same day as the teaser, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) included the updated Seagull in its latest batch of new energy vehicles approved for sale.
According to the filing, the new model measures 4,205 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. That represents a significant increase over the current Seagull, which measures 3,780 mm in length.
The updated Seagull also receives a more powerful 95 kW (127 hp) electric motor, replacing the current model’s 55 kW (75 hp) unit.
Battery and Interior Updates
While detailed specifications were not disclosed, the updated hatchback will use a BYD Blade LFP battery.
The current Seagull EV is available with two battery options: a 30.08 kWh pack offering a CLTC driving range of up to 305 km (190 miles), and a 38.88 kWh pack providing up to 405 km (251 miles).
Inside, the 2026 Seagull received a new 12.8-inch floating central infotainment display featuring 3D vehicle controls and BYD’s DiLink 150 smart cockpit system.
2026 BYD Seagull EV Pricing
- 305 km Vitality — 69,900 yuan ($10,300)
- 305 km Freedom — 78,900 yuan ($11,600)
- 305 km Freedom (with optional God’s Eye B) — 90,900 yuan ($13,400)
- 405 km Comfort — 78,900 yuan ($11,600)
- 405 km Flying — 85,900 yuan ($12,600)
- 405 km Flying (with optional God’s Eye B) — 97,900 yuan ($14,400)
Advanced Driver Assistance Available on Higher Trims
The higher-priced Freedom and Flying trims offer BYD’s God’s Eye B, also known as DiPilot 300, as an optional feature. The mid-tier smart driving system is typically reserved for higher-end vehicles.
Powered by an Nvidia Drive Orin chip, the system includes a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor and supports advanced driver assistance features, including Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) for city and highway driving, as well as automated parking.
Global Models Could Receive Similar Upgrades
Although the latest regulatory filing covers the Seagull EV sold in China, BYD is expected to introduce similar upgrades to the Dolphin Surf and Dolphin Mini models offered in international markets.
The latest update expands on the changes introduced with the 2026 Seagull EV, adding a larger body and increased motor output while maintaining the model’s position as BYD’s entry-level electric hatchback.
