BYD is preparing to launch an upgraded version of its Seagull electric car, sold as the Dolphin Surf in Europe and the Dolphin Mini in other overseas markets, after images revealed major changes to the cabin and a notable increase in power and dimensions. The new car is expected to launch in China before reaching overseas markets.
Prices for the current Seagull in China start at 69,900 yuan, or approximately $10,000, making it BYD’s cheapest all-electric car. The car also has broad reach; according to data compiled by Cleantechnica, it ranked sixth among the world’s best-selling electric cars during the first half of 2026.
An Update That Goes Beyond the Interior Design
The new car first appeared in a blurry image posted by Zhang Zhuo, BYD’s head of Ocean Series sales, about a month ago. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology also listed it among a batch of new-energy vehicles approved for sale last month, revealing some of its potential specifications.
Approval data indicates that the upgraded version will be 4,205 millimeters long, 1,810 millimeters wide, and 1,570 millimeters tall, with a 2,650-millimeter wheelbase. By comparison, the current Seagull is only 3,780 millimeters long, meaning the update is not limited to changes in appearance or cabin equipment.
The spy image posted by the ThinkerCar account shows a single large central screen for the infotainment system, along with a redesigned center console. Despite the move toward a larger screen, the car retains physical buttons below the screen and on the steering wheel.
A More Powerful Motor and Potential Driving Equipment
According to the available information, the new version will receive a 95-kilowatt electric motor, or 127 horsepower, compared with the current version’s 55-kilowatt motor, or 75 horsepower. Teaser images also showed a LiDAR sensor on the roof, suggesting support for new advanced driver-assistance system features, but BYD has not yet announced details of these functions.
The current Seagull uses two batteries with capacities of 30.08 and 38.88 kilowatt-hours, with a claimed CLTC range of 305 kilometers and 405 kilometers, respectively. The company has not yet revealed whether the upgraded version will retain these options or receive different batteries.
Why Does This Update Matter?
The changes arrive as the car faces growing competition in the low-cost electric vehicle segment. Increasing power, expanding the dimensions, and updating the cabin could give the Seagull a greater ability to maintain its popularity, while LiDAR equipment, if its functions are confirmed at launch, could bring some driver-assistance technologies to a lower price segment. However, battery specifications, charging technologies, the launch date, and prices outside China remain undisclosed.
Expectations cited in the source suggest that the car may be equipped with BYD’s Blade batteries and its new Flash Charging technology, but the company has not officially confirmed this point. Therefore, it cannot be considered part of the model’s final specifications until the full reveal.