BYD Launches Pre-Orders for the New Seagull, a Larger Version of Its Popular $10K EV
The second-generation model features a longer wheelbase, a rear-mounted motor, and LiDAR-enabled advanced driver assistance.
BYD has officially opened blind pre-orders for the second-generation Seagull, a significantly larger and more feature-rich version of its entry-level electric vehicle.
What Happened
Zhang Zhuo, general manager of BYD’s Ocean series, announced on Weibo that pre-orders for the new Seagull began on Friday with six exterior color options available. While prices have not yet been revealed, which is standard for blind pre-orders in China, the vehicle is confirmed to launch as the "Great Seagull" by the end of 2026. Regulatory filings from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) reveal that 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. This represents a 425 mm increase in length and a 150 mm extension in wheelbase compared to the current Seagull. Additionally, the new model switches from a front-mounted motor to a rear-mounted 95 kW (127 hp) electric motor, up from the 55 kW (75 hp) unit in the previous generation.
Why It Matters
The upgrade addresses growing competition in the entry-level EV market while retaining the Seagull's core value proposition. The current Seagull, sold overseas as the Dolphin Surf or Dolphin Mini, has been among the world’s best-selling EVs, ranking sixth globally through August with over 212,000 units sold. By expanding the vehicle's dimensions and adding premium features such as ambient lighting, massaging front seats, and a roof-mounted LiDAR for BYD’s God’s Eye B intelligent driving system, BYD aims to attract buyers who want more space and technology without a substantial price hike. The inclusion of physical buttons and a redesigned cockpit also responds to user feedback, potentially improving usability over the previous fully digital interface.
The Bottom Line
BYD's second-generation Seagull is set to launch in China by the end of 2026, with an overseas variant expected to follow as a larger version of the Dolphin Surf and Dolphin Mini. The model promises enhanced size, power, and autonomous driving capabilities while maintaining its status as a highly affordable electric vehicle option.
